The Balvenie Caribbean Cask Aged 14 Years

Distillery Background and History

The Balvenie Distillery, established in 1892 by William Grant in Dufftown, Speyside, is among Scotland’s last craft distilleries preserving rare traditions such as floor malting, on-site cooperage, coppersmithing, and estate-grown barley. Under family ownership (William Grant & Sons), it is famed for its classic Speyside elegance and pioneering cask-finishing expressions  .

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Legendary Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE, in position since the 1960s and now succeeded by Brian Kinsman, conceived the rum‑cask finish—merging Balvenie’s signature honey sweetness with tropical richness. This innovation reflects his philosophy of marrying traditional methods with creative experimentation  .

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Produced from 100% malted barley—partly grown on-site and partly sourced locally—Balvenie uses pure Speyside spring water and traditional yeast strains, contributing to the distillery’s elegant honeyed profile  .

Distillation Process

A classic single malt production with five wash stills and six spirit stills, copper pot‑distilled in traditional batches, delivering the distillery’s characteristic smoothness and medium body  .

Maturation & Cask Information

Aged for 14 years in ex‑bourbon American oak barrels, then finished in bespoke rum-seasoned American oak casks (filled by Balvenie with West Indian rum, then refilled with spirit), creating a rich honey‑fruit complexity  .

Tasting Notes

Nose: Vanilla fudge, toffee, honey, tropical fruit (mango, papaya, coconut), orchard fruit  .

Palate: Smooth, oily mouthfeel with caramel, brown sugar, tropical fruit, spice (nutmeg, cinnamon), soft oak  .

Finish: Medium‑long with lingering honey, pepper, nutmeg, oak warmth  .

Food Pairing Suggestions

Enjoy with crème brûlée, banana bread, fruit tarts, caramel-glazed nuts, grilled pineapple, or mild blue cheese for rich-sweet contrast.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of water in a Glencairn or tulip glass at approximately 15–18°C to highlight its honeyed aromas and silky texture.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once opened, the whisky remains stable under cool, dark conditions. As a matured 14‑year‑old, it offers limited evolution in the bottle.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single malt Scotch whisky—100% malted barley.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

43% (86 proof)