This Balmenach 1975 was matured in first fill sherry casks. It was distilled in April 1975 and bottled by G&M in its Connoisseurs Choice range.

Balmenach 31yo 1975
(43%, Gordon & MacPhail 2007)

Nose: special. A sherry profile but quite unique. Earthy, with notes of hay and a fern forest. Nuts. Something of soy sauce. Apples. Coffee. Some heather. Rather strange, quite herbal, with interesting notes of pine needles! Very complex really. Mouth: oily mouth-feel but slightly underpowered at 43%. Big notes of dried fruits (figs, raisins), candied orange peel, very dark chocolate. Hints of roasted nuts / smoke as well. Some banana. Ginger. Rich and intense. Finish: very long, very sherried. A pinch of salt in the aftertaste. Excellent espresso.

This Balmenach feels old, in a good way. Well, it is old of course… but first fill sherried whisky at this age is not always drinkable. This one doesn’t have that problem and the result is intense, old-school sherry. A contemplative whisky that would have been even better at 46% or cask strength. Some bottles left at around € 90.

Score: 89/100

Balmenach 10 yo 2000 (46%, Liquid Treasures & Villa Konthor 2011, bourbon hogshead)

Nose: a fragrant nose, quite sweet and fruity (gooseberries, apples, pears, lemon candy). Fresh with a faint gristy note in the back, as well as some “green” notes. Exemplary young Speyside style. Mouth: again quite playful with unripe pear, malty sweetness, honey and soft spices. Plenty of vanilla. Fresh oak with hints of ginger and green lemon. Developing a warm mocha note in the end. Finish: medium length with fruits and a hint of liquorice.

Light, pleasantly simple and completely flawless. A nice daily dram – a bottle of this would be empty before you know it. Around € 50. It has just arrived in the eSpirits web shop.

Score: 84/100