Ballantine’s 17yo Whisky

Distillery Background and History

Ballantine’s is a renowned Scotch whisky brand originally established in Edinburgh in 1827 by George Ballantine. Over time it evolved from a wine & spirits merchant into a full-fledged blender of Scotch whiskies. Today, Ballantine’s is owned by Chivas Brothers (Pernod Ricard) and maintained through blending operations centered in Dumbarton and associated warehouses. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

The Ballantine’s blending team aims to craft whiskies with harmony, combining multiple single malts and grain whiskies to achieve balance, complexity, and smooth drinkability. For the 17-year expression, the focus is on deeper maturation, with a gentle smoky nuance and enhanced oak character, without losing the signature Ballantine’s balance. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

The blend draws from a large portfolio of Scotch whiskies, including the “fingerprint malts” of Ballantine’s—Miltonduff and Glenburgie—as well as other malt and grain whiskies. The grain component complements the malts to produce body and smoothness. Water and yeast are sourced in alignment with the distilleries contributing to the blend, but not publicly detailed per expression. 

Distillation Process

Since this is a blended Scotch, each whisky component is distilled separately at its respective distillery. Malt whiskies are produced via traditional copper pot still double distillation, while grain whiskies derive from column stills. The blending and maturation strategy, rather than distillation method, defines this expression.

Maturation & Cask Information

All whiskies in the blend are aged for a minimum of 17 years. The cask mix is proprietary, but the extended maturation allows deeper wood influence (oak, vanilla) and the integration of subtle smoke character mentioned by the brand. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Smooth vanilla and oak with a sensation of smoke. 

Palate: Full and complex — vibrant honey sweetness, creamy vanilla flavors, hints of oak and spicy liquorice. 

Finish: Long, sweet and smooth with a hint of spice. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs nicely with nut-based desserts, mild cheeses, dark chocolate, grilled meats with fruity glaze, or desserts that match its honey and vanilla notes.

Service Methods and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of water to open up the aromas. Use a Glencairn or tulip whisky glass to capture and concentrate the scents. Ideal drinking temperature: ~16–18 °C.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once bottled, this whisky is stable and not meant for further barrel aging. Store upright, away from direct light, in a cool environment (15-20 °C). After opening, best consumed within 1–2 years to retain aromatic complexity.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Blended Scotch (combines malt + grain whiskies)

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40 %