Balvenie Tun 1509 - Batch No. 1

Balvenie Tun 1509 - Batch No. 1, NAS, 47,1 %

After nine batches since 2010, of the Balvenie Tun 1401, it is now time for the follow-up. Tun 1509 is four times the size of Tun 1401, at 8000 liters, so we should see larger batches released. Balvenie Tun 1509 - Batch No. 1 is made up from seven European oak Sherry butts and 35 American oak barrels. This whisky was allowed to marry together for several months in tun 1509. The total outturn for batch 1 was 11000 bottles.

Balvenie Tun 1509 - Batch No. 1 is already largely sold out, but expect Batch No. 2 to appear in not too long. There are still some bottles left in Sweden at SEK 2493 (item number 86565).

Nose (22/25): Mild sherry notes on the nose. I get almonds, marzipan, dark fruits, mild citrus, vanilla and red berries. It feels oily.

Taste (22/25): Warm and oaky. Sherry and bourbon influence seem more balanced here. It has a funny and nice mouth-feel, it sort of dances on my tongue. After a couple of sips I also pick up oranges and some oaky spiciness.

Finish (22/25): Fizzy ginger! It is long and cool. Turns slightly dry towards the end, and a bit minty. Definite oak influence, and the bourbon casks have taken over the show by now.

Balance (22/25): A very nice dram. I have not tried any of the Tun 1401 batches, so I cannot compare it to them, but I liked this whisky.

Score (88/100)

Image from The Whisky Exchange.

Sláinte! - Thomas