Balblair 12 YO

Balblair 12 YO, 46 %

In April this year Balblair launched their new core range. They have now, sadly in my humble opinion, moved away from their vintage releases and opted for the more traditional aged statement expressions. Cudos to them for sticking 100 % to age statements though. The new series consists of as 12 YO, a 15 YO, an 18 YO and finally a 25 YO.

Balblair is an old Highland distillery, established as far back as 1790. The distillery is located in Edderton, less than an hour north of Inverness.

The Balblair 12 YO has been matured in American oak ex-bourbon and double fired American oak casks (presumably fresh oak then). It is quite pale in colour.

The Balblair 12 YO will be available to buy in Norway on September 6 at NOK 699, and in the UK at around GBP 44.

Nose: Fruity and quite oaky. The oakiness is fresh, of a sorts, but it also has a slight edge to it. Borderline sour, with a flinty character. Citrus fruit and apples. Vanilla.

Taste: Medium body and sweetness. A spicy delivery up front. Fizzy pepper and ginger. The fruitiness is pushed to the back.

Finish: Medium long finish. The spices subside and the fruits are back. Citrus again - mainly lemon notes. A touch of oakiness.

Comment: An OK dram, but it comes across as a bit younger than what it is.

Score 79/100

Sláinte!
- Thomas