Balvenie 17 yo Peated Cask 43%

The Balvenie 17 Year Old Peated Cask is a fascinating limited-edition Speyside single malt, released in 2010 as part of Balvenie’s series of experimental 17 Year Old expressions.

Rather than producing a conventionally peated whisky, Balvenie introduced smoke through an unusual approach to maturation. The whisky combines spirit matured in virgin oak with whisky finished in casks that had previously held an experimental batch of heavily peated Balvenie distilled in 2001. This allowed the casks to impart their residual smoky character while retaining the honeyed, elegant house style for which Balvenie is known.

The result is a beautifully balanced expression where delicate peat smoke sits alongside floral notes of violet and lavender, honeyed vanilla and warming oak. On the palate, the smoke initially makes itself known before softening to reveal honey, vanilla and oak, followed by developing cinnamon and nutmeg spice.

The finish brings together sweetness and warming spice with a lingering touch of smoke, creating an unusual interpretation of Balvenie that remains distinctly recognisable as the Dufftown distillery.

Released in limited quantities in 2010 and bottled at 43% ABV, the Peated Cask represents an intriguing chapter in Balvenie’s experimentation with cask maturation.

Please note: This bottle has been sourced from a private collection.