I found this miniature among another exciting miniatures in a tiny liquor store in Torremolinos Spain about 15 years ago. My first encounter with the Ballantine’s goes back to the golden 80’s when my brother shared a bottle of Ballantine’s 12 yo on our vacation in Benidorm Spain – as a teenager our goal was get drunk. As you can guess it all ended up in our hotel bathroom, talking to the toilet. Since that I haven’t touch Ballantine’s 12 yo, oh those fond memories.
Colour: Gold.
Nose: Nice mellow aromas of oloroso sherry. A hint of crushed coriander seeds and curry powder. There is also some Highland peat in the mix. Malted barley & beef stock. Dark chocolate and vanilla extract. Very nicely balanced nose.
Palate: Feels quite a bit stronger than 43% ABV. The palate follows the nose: Nutty oloroso sherry. Middle part of the palate is quite spicy with nice nippy oak tannins. 90 % dark chocolate and cooling mint & cocoa powder. All in all, good strong balance.
Finish: Green oak, strong spicy minty notes.
Yeah, a fine old blend – From now on I will not avoid the Ballantine’s finest.
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