The Balvenie 14 Years Stories Series - The Week of Peat

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 preserves legacy methods such as floor maltings, on-site cooperage, and copper smithing. In 2019, Balvenie launched the “Stories” series to celebrate the craftsmen’s unique tales—The Week of Peat honors the annual experiment of using peated malt for a week, dating back to 2002 under distillery manager Ian Millar and Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE  .

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Led historically by David C. Stewart MBE and currently overseen by Brian Kinsman, the Balvenie team embraces craft-led experimentation. For this release, they combine their signature honeyed Speyside style with gentle peat smoke—a delicate balance reflecting respect for tradition while exploring new flavour dimensions  .

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Produced exclusively from 100% malted barley—partly estate-grown and partly locally sourced—Balvenie utilises untouched Speyside spring water. Traditional yeast strains are employed to capture the distillery’s hallmark elegance  .

Distillation Process

Following classic single malt methodology, Balvenie uses copper pot still distillation—five wash stills and six spirit stills—producing a smooth, medium-bodied spirit. Peated malt is used during “peat week,” then the distillation returns to unpeated runs  .

Maturation & Cask Information

Aged for 14 years in ex-bourbon barrels, with whiskey distilled during “peat week” blended into the final vatting. Bottled without chill-filtration at 48.3% ABV. This approach maintains a silky malt sweetness with a light peat overlay  .

Tasting Notes

Nose: Honeyed sweetness married with gentle peat smoke, crème brûlée, vanilla oak, citrus zest, subtle orchard fruit 

Palate: Silky and balanced—smooth smoke, citrus spice, honey, malt grain, light pepper, and oak warmth 

Finish: Medium length; lingering creamy vanilla, soft smoke, orchard fruit, and gentle pepper  .

Food Pairing Suggestions

Ideal with smoked salmon canapés, grilled scallops with brown butter, creamy blue cheeses, crème brûlée, and pear tarte Tatin—complementing the smoke, citrus, and sweet honey notes.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a drop of water in a Glencairn or tulip glass at 15–18 °C. Swirl gently to release peat aromas. No ice recommended to preserve balance.

Storage and Aging Potential

Stable post-opening if stored upright in a cool, dark place. As a 14-year aged single malt, it offers no further maturation in the bottle.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single malt Scotch whisky—100% malted barley, including a portion with peated malt for the “peat week” expression.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

48.3%