The Balvenie 12 Years Stories Series - The Sweet Toast of American Oak

Distillery Background and History

Established in 1892 by William Grant in Dufftown, Speyside, The Balvenie Distillery remains one of Scotland’s few traditional craft distilleries. It boasts on-site barley cultivation, floor maltings, cooperage, copper smithing, and has maintained family ownership through William Grant & Sons. In 2019, the distillery launched the “Stories” series to showcase experimentation by its craftsmen  .

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Apprentice Malt Master Kelsey McKechnie spearheaded this finish: maturing whisky in ex-bourbon American oak barrels for 12 years, followed by finishing in toasted virgin virgin oak from Kentucky. The goal was to marry Balvenie’s classic honeyed profile with bold American oak character through artisanal toasting  .

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Made from 100% Speyside malted barley, Balvenie sources a portion from its own estate and other Scottish growers. It uses pure Speyside spring water, traditional yeast strains, and honors its terroir in all craft elements  .

Distillation Process

Production follows Balvenie’s classic method: copper pot still distillation—five wash and six spirit stills—with single malt spirit distilled once per traditional batch process  .

Maturation & Cask Information

The whisky matures first in ex-bourbon American oak casks for 12 years. It is then finished for a few months in virgin American oak barrels sourced from Kelvin Cooperage, toasted in Kentucky and further toasted on-site—creating concentrated vanilla and spice nuances  .

Tasting Notes

Nose: Vanilla fudge, citrus peel, honeyed oak, caramel, spice-laced oak warmth 

Palate: Sweet and creamy with candied orange, toffee, cinnamon, light ginger, toasted coconut, molten brown sugar 

Finish: Medium length, witness butterscotch, charred oak, burnt honey, peppery spice 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs beautifully with spice-laced desserts (gingerbread, crème brûlée), apple tarts, caramelized nuts, and grilled pineapple. Also complements buttery cheeses like aged Comté.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a drop of water in a Glencairn glass at 15–18 °C to highlight its toasted oak and citrus sweetness. A tulip glass may also accentuate aromatic depth.

Storage and Aging Potential

Stable post-opening if stored upright in a cool, dim area. As a mature, bottled whisky, it offers limited evolution beyond storage.

Grain Type & Mash Bill

Single malt Scotch whisky – made exclusively from malted barley.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

43%