The Balvenie PortWood Aged 21 Years

Distillery Background and History

Founded in 1892 by William Grant in Dufftown, Speyside, The Balvenie Distillery remains one of the few with traditional crafts like floor maltings, on-site cooperage, copper smithing, and estate-grown barley. Under the ownership of William Grant & Sons, it is renowned for marrying craftsmanship with experimental innovation, and PortWood 21 was introduced to showcase its mastery in port pipe finishing  .

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Originally pioneered by David C. Stewart MBE and now overseen by the current team, Balvenie’s philosophy revolves around long‑term maturation and secondary finishing techniques grounded in traditional methods. PortWood 21 exemplifies their ethos: marrying the distillery’s trademark honeyed Speyside character with rich port cask influence  .

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Crafted from 100% malted barley—partially estate-grown at Balvenie and partially sourced from trusted Speyside farms—this whisky is distilled using pure spring water from the local area and traditional yeast, preserving its signature malt sweetness  .

Distillation Process

Produced at Balvenie using copper pot stills—five wash and six spirit stills—the spirit is distilled in small batch runs that yield a smooth, medium-bodied single malt spirit without peating, consistent with the distillery’s style  .

Maturation & Cask Information

Aged for 21 years, primarily in ex-bourbon American oak barrels, then finished in port pipes (vintage port-seasoned casks) for a period that imparts grape resin, dark fruit, and spice notes. This finish elevates the whisky with balanced richness and elegance  .

Tasting Notes

Nose: Elegant red grape, vanilla, milk chocolate, nutty oak, and subtle spice—fruity yet refined 

Palate: Rich plum, dark berries, honey sweetness, savory spice, and balanced oak tannin—smooth and plush 

Finish: Long and gently drying with lingering spice, lingering oak warmth, and a touch of mocha 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs exquisitely with dark chocolate desserts, crème brûlée, fruit‑based pastries (e.g. plum or cherry tart), aged Manchego or Comté cheese, and roasted nuts with dried berry compotes.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat in a Glencairn or tulip glass at 15–18 °C. A few drops of water may open the aroma. Avoid ice to fully appreciate the texture and flavor nuances.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store upright in a cool, dark place. As a fully matured whisky, additional bottle aging imparts minimal change beyond oxidation; enjoy within a few years after opening.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single malt Scotch whisky—100% malted barley, matured in ex-bourbon and port-seasoned casks.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

43% (86 proof)