The Balvenie DoubleWood Aged 12 Years

Distillery Background and History

Founded in 1892 by William Grant in Dufftown, Speyside, the Balvenie Distillery is one of the few that still maintains traditional crafts on site—including floor malting, cooperage, and coppersmithing  . The brand is part of the family-owned William Grant & Sons and enjoys a reputation for quality and innovation, especially in wood finishing. It remains one of the top-selling single malts globally  .

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

The legendary David C. Stewart MBE, Malt Master since the 1960s, pioneered the whisky’s double maturation technique: aging in American oak barrels followed by finishing in European sherry casks  . His successor, Brian Kinsman, continues to uphold this philosophy of marrying traditional craftsmanship with refined elegance  .

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

The Balvenie uses locally grown barley from its own estate (approximately 5–10%) and carefully selected suppliers for the rest  . It sources pure Speyside spring water and employs traditional yeast strains, contributing to its signature soft honeyed character and natural Speyside terroir.

Distillation Process

The operation uses five wash stills and six spirit stills, reflecting medium production scale for single malt. The distillation is done in copper pot stills, typical of Balvenie’s smooth and fruity style  .

Maturation & Cask Information

The whisky matures initially in American oak ex-bourbon barrels for 12 years, then spends a finishing period of approximately nine months in European oak oloroso sherry casks—a hallmark of the DoubleWood style  . After cask finishing, whiskies are often married in large oak tuns for several months to harmonise flavors  .

Tasting Notes

Nose: Floral honey, gentle oak, almonds, orange zest, and vanilla layered over sweet sherry and dried fruit 

Palate: Smooth and mellow with nutty sweetness, cinnamon spice, dried fruits, caramel, and malt 

Finish: Long and warming, with hints of chocolate, brown sugar, a touch of pepper, and lingering oak 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs wonderfully with caramelised nuts, almond biscotti, apple pie, creamy cheeses (like Brie or aged Comté), smoked salmon canapés, or honey-glazed chicken. Its smooth sweetness also makes it a delightful after-dinner dram.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of water in a Glencairn glass at around 15–18 °C. Alternatively, enjoy it in a tulip glass or whiskey tumbler to enhance aromatic clarity and balance.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once opened, the whisky remains stable for years if stored upright in a cool, dark place. Bottle should be rotated to preserve freshness. Since it’s mature, further aging in bottle offers limited added value.

Grain Type & Mash Bill

Single malt Scotch whisky, made exclusively from malted barley.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

43%