Agreed 100%, especially about wanting to like it more than you do. I've never had a Balvenie that I've loved, and I've had a few I didn't like at all. Balvenie has a pretty good marketing team, because the bottle & labels are very classic looking and they've been able to push this blend-filler style malt really upmarket.
Yeah there's quality there, but much of that potential is wasted. That being said, their single barrel 15 sherry is one of my favourites. Amazing stuff, although it's (unsurprisingly) also quite pricey.
@@Gwhisky All of William Grant & Sons products leave a lot to be desired IMHO. Tons of potential there, but virtually everything they bottle is pretty sad.
Really tried this one for the first time and agree with the ginger beer notes, was the most prominent note for me and unexpected given their tasting notes on the carton is has been positioned as smooth and fruity, but comes on as sharp and ginger spicy.
Hi Geoff, I like your channel. You have a great format, a fresh approach and rhythm. I think I am going to take ideas from you 🙂. I wish you great success. Cheers!
Another spot on review that pretty much confirmed my suspicions. To riff on a Texas aphorism...Balvenie is for the most part all marketing, no hat (15 single barrel excepted but even that is overpriced). You are diplomatic Geoff, but that's what makes you a balanced and trustworthy reviewer; I would probably slag this stuff big time. Cheers!
Thanks Lewis. Yeah Balvenie is a lot of marketing and overpriced whisky. The frustrating thing is that there is good quality there, and it could shine through if given the opportunity. The 15 is indeed overpriced, but man is it good...
@@Gwhisky Agreed it's a storied distillery with a singular malt that deserves so much more. But they're selling bottles and that seems to be what matters most to the current owners. Perhaps as the Scotch industry evolves, however begrudgingly, to a more savvy global and online marketplace that will change. Or not. Either way fortunately for us whisky aficionados there are plenty of other options that deliver the goods at half the price!
So is the 12 Yr Double Wood a no-go for you? I can pick it up for $52 in my area these days. Seems appealing. Best part of the videos I've watched of yours is you talk about the good and the bad. Very fair. Many others just rip apart what they don't like. Your reviews have a good balance. Cool.
I have tasted this one recently at a friend's place. I found it to be extremely "Balvenie"! Yes, I used the brand as an adjective. It sums it up perfectly. Typical Speyside flavor notes with a few layers of spices added by the double char. I echo you and Chris that there haven't been a single Balvenie that I absolutely loved, except for their 15 year single barrel (I think it was bottled at 47%) which was an excellent sherry cask matured whisky. However, to be fair their intention is cater to the "easy-drinking" club and they succeed admirably in that endeavor. A few "gateway" whiskies have to exist to introduce the uninitiated to the world of single malt whiskies.
Agree. They're a premium easy-access brand, much like Macallan. That 15 Single Barrel though... stunner! One of the finest sherried expressions out there imo. Such a contrast to their standard fare.
@@Gwhisky Yes. I would prefer a Balvenie over a Dalmore anyday. Sometimes I actually question whether the Balvenie 15 is a Balvenie at all! And that is where it is so frustrating. It could have been a serendipitous acquisition of some excellent casks but the higher ABV clearly helps as well. I just cannot wrap my head around chill filtering. I do understand the market value of color. A lot of people I know go for the cosmetics of a darker spirit. And brands make more money by selling their stuff at 40% or 43% rather than 46%, but why chill filter as well? Are people still put off by the whisky haze? To be honest that only happens when the amenable temperature is quite cool. So perhaps it is for people who usually consume their whiskies with ice. I don't know for sure. But it really is frustrating for a purist like me.
It would seem that despite being quite loud and adamant about natural presentation, we don't represent a substantial enough percentage of their consumer base for them to care. It's a bit of a dated concept to presume that buyers are always of the opinion that dark colours look good and scotch mist looks bad, especially since modern consumers have a world of information at their fingertips.
@@Gwhisky Unfortunately yes. We are a minority. However, the problem with not being able to fact check or delve into anything that matters, is not only the problem with whisky consumers in general but the whole world in general. If only we could all avail of the wealth of actual information and empirical facts available to us, the world would be a better place to live in. Clearly, it is Friday and I am battling my temptation to pour a dram of whisky at 11am. Let us put all our cynicism to rest, enjoy a weekend of revelry and of course libations. Propinate nobis similibusque!
As always an excellent and very honest review , so many other whiskies out there with ..as you say more of a hook , this is just bland …Geoff , are you always drinking your whiskies neat irrespective of ABV .?surely quite a few of em benefit from a drop of water and a little time , your observations would be appreciated 👍…Great reviews mate , keep em coming ..
Thanks Allan. I do dabble with water for some whiskies. Certainly when I'm getting to know any whisky with a higher abv trying it out with water is essential. However, most of what I drink is neat. But if there's a notable improvement, I'll consistently splash in some water in some cases. You're right, though. I rarely touch on those aspects in the reviews. I suppose I should give water and time in the glass more attention on screen. Cheers!
I really enjoyed the Balvenie 14 Carribean cask. I agree that the ABC is too low. I enjoyed the 14 extremely more compared to say Glenlivet 12 and Glenfiddich 12. Also Glenmorangie 10. I also enjoyed Singleton of Glendullan 12 more than those but less Balvenie 14. So take it with a grain of salt that I am not far into my scotch journey.
@@Gwhisky see the problem for me is that I am not at the point that I can ID the complexities in scotches. I know that Balvenie 14 is not the be all end all in scotch. I have not tried many smoky scotches. Only Johnny Walker Black. Was not a fan of the ash taste.
If you want to ease into peated scotch, Jonah's suggestion of Talisker 10 is a great one. Otherwise perhaps some other island offerings like Highland Park 12. Part of the fun of getting started is all the exploring you can do. You won't like everything, but it fun to try different styles and figure out where your preferences lie.
@@timothyjuarez5306 The great thing about single malt Scotch is the myriad flavours and sensations waiting to be discovered. I'm not a fan of intense peat myself, yet there are still a few that strike the right balance imo, Glen Scotia 15 or Victoriana for example. There are plenty of affordable single malts to explore without breaking the bank: Arran 10, Bunnahabhain 12, Tobermory 12, Deanston 12, Craigallachie 13, Glenallachie 12 just to name a few off the top of my head...
The 12 yr old American Oak was just far to immature of a whisky for my liking. I pretty much have to jump up to the 16 yr French Oak offering before Balvenie hits me right and after that, the Balvenie line really shines; TUN, Second Rose, Distant Shores were all amazing.
The better batches of the 15 sherry were some of the best sherried whisky I've had. The 21 port wood is excellent. Can't think of a 3rd. I'm dreaming of the day that I get to try a Tun.
The Balvenie is totally hit or miss. I have not tried this one. The 15 is amazing. The 12 first filled is great. The double wood and Caribbean are terrible. The 18 is not worth the price
Agreed 100%, especially about wanting to like it more than you do. I've never had a Balvenie that I've loved, and I've had a few I didn't like at all.
Balvenie has a pretty good marketing team, because the bottle & labels are very classic looking and they've been able to push this blend-filler style malt really upmarket.
Yeah there's quality there, but much of that potential is wasted. That being said, their single barrel 15 sherry is one of my favourites. Amazing stuff, although it's (unsurprisingly) also quite pricey.
@@Gwhisky Good to know, thanks.
@@Gwhisky All of William Grant & Sons products leave a lot to be desired IMHO. Tons of potential there, but virtually everything they bottle is pretty sad.
Totally agree.
Really tried this one for the first time and agree with the ginger beer notes, was the most prominent note for me and unexpected given their tasting notes on the carton is has been positioned as smooth and fruity, but comes on as sharp and ginger spicy.
Hi Geoff, I like your channel. You have a great format, a fresh approach and rhythm. I think I am going to take ideas from you 🙂. I wish you great success. Cheers!
Thanks and feel free!
Love your work! Most informative whisky reviewer!
Thanks! 🙏
Another spot on review that pretty much confirmed my suspicions. To riff on a Texas aphorism...Balvenie is for the most part all marketing, no hat (15 single barrel excepted but even that is overpriced). You are diplomatic Geoff, but that's what makes you a balanced and trustworthy reviewer; I would probably slag this stuff big time. Cheers!
Thanks Lewis. Yeah Balvenie is a lot of marketing and overpriced whisky. The frustrating thing is that there is good quality there, and it could shine through if given the opportunity.
The 15 is indeed overpriced, but man is it good...
@@Gwhisky Agreed it's a storied distillery with a singular malt that deserves so much more. But they're selling bottles and that seems to be what matters most to the current owners. Perhaps as the Scotch industry evolves, however begrudgingly, to a more savvy global and online marketplace that will change. Or not. Either way fortunately for us whisky aficionados there are plenty of other options that deliver the goods at half the price!
So is the 12 Yr Double Wood a no-go for you? I can pick it up for $52 in my area these days. Seems appealing. Best part of the videos I've watched of yours is you talk about the good and the bad. Very fair. Many others just rip apart what they don't like. Your reviews have a good balance. Cool.
It's... ok. I'm not a huge fan personally. A bit generic.
I have tasted this one recently at a friend's place. I found it to be extremely "Balvenie"! Yes, I used the brand as an adjective. It sums it up perfectly. Typical Speyside flavor notes with a few layers of spices added by the double char.
I echo you and Chris that there haven't been a single Balvenie that I absolutely loved, except for their 15 year single barrel (I think it was bottled at 47%) which was an excellent sherry cask matured whisky.
However, to be fair their intention is cater to the "easy-drinking" club and they succeed admirably in that endeavor. A few "gateway" whiskies have to exist to introduce the uninitiated to the world of single malt whiskies.
Agree. They're a premium easy-access brand, much like Macallan. That 15 Single Barrel though... stunner! One of the finest sherried expressions out there imo. Such a contrast to their standard fare.
@@Gwhisky Yes. I would prefer a Balvenie over a Dalmore anyday.
Sometimes I actually question whether the Balvenie 15 is a Balvenie at all! And that is where it is so frustrating. It could have been a serendipitous acquisition of some excellent casks but the higher ABV clearly helps as well. I just cannot wrap my head around chill filtering. I do understand the market value of color. A lot of people I know go for the cosmetics of a darker spirit. And brands make more money by selling their stuff at 40% or 43% rather than 46%, but why chill filter as well? Are people still put off by the whisky haze? To be honest that only happens when the amenable temperature is quite cool. So perhaps it is for people who usually consume their whiskies with ice. I don't know for sure. But it really is frustrating for a purist like me.
It would seem that despite being quite loud and adamant about natural presentation, we don't represent a substantial enough percentage of their consumer base for them to care. It's a bit of a dated concept to presume that buyers are always of the opinion that dark colours look good and scotch mist looks bad, especially since modern consumers have a world of information at their fingertips.
@@Gwhisky Unfortunately yes. We are a minority.
However, the problem with not being able to fact check or delve into anything that matters, is not only the problem with whisky consumers in general but the whole world in general. If only we could all avail of the wealth of actual information and empirical facts available to us, the world would be a better place to live in.
Clearly, it is Friday and I am battling my temptation to pour a dram of whisky at 11am. Let us put all our cynicism to rest, enjoy a weekend of revelry and of course libations. Propinate nobis similibusque!
Pushing midnight here. Redbreast 12 CS in the glass at the moment. Cheers!
As always an excellent and very honest review , so many other whiskies out there with ..as you say more of a hook , this is just bland …Geoff , are you always drinking your whiskies neat irrespective of ABV .?surely quite a few of em benefit from a drop of water and a little time , your observations would be appreciated 👍…Great reviews mate , keep em coming ..
Thanks Allan. I do dabble with water for some whiskies. Certainly when I'm getting to know any whisky with a higher abv trying it out with water is essential. However, most of what I drink is neat. But if there's a notable improvement, I'll consistently splash in some water in some cases. You're right, though. I rarely touch on those aspects in the reviews. I suppose I should give water and time in the glass more attention on screen. Cheers!
I really enjoyed the Balvenie 14 Carribean cask. I agree that the ABC is too low. I enjoyed the 14 extremely more compared to say Glenlivet 12 and Glenfiddich 12. Also Glenmorangie 10. I also enjoyed Singleton of Glendullan 12 more than those but less Balvenie 14. So take it with a grain of salt that I am not far into my scotch journey.
The Caribbean cask isn't bad at all. Enjoy what you like, regardless of how long you've been drinking! Cheers!
@@Gwhisky see the problem for me is that I am not at the point that I can ID the complexities in scotches. I know that Balvenie 14 is not the be all end all in scotch. I have not tried many smoky scotches. Only Johnny Walker Black. Was not a fan of the ash taste.
@@timothyjuarez5306 try Talisker any of their expressions!
If you want to ease into peated scotch, Jonah's suggestion of Talisker 10 is a great one. Otherwise perhaps some other island offerings like Highland Park 12. Part of the fun of getting started is all the exploring you can do. You won't like everything, but it fun to try different styles and figure out where your preferences lie.
@@timothyjuarez5306 The great thing about single malt Scotch is the myriad flavours and sensations waiting to be discovered. I'm not a fan of intense peat myself, yet there are still a few that strike the right balance imo, Glen Scotia 15 or Victoriana for example. There are plenty of affordable single malts to explore without breaking the bank: Arran 10, Bunnahabhain 12, Tobermory 12, Deanston 12, Craigallachie 13, Glenallachie 12 just to name a few off the top of my head...
The 12 yr old American Oak was just far to immature of a whisky for my liking. I pretty much have to jump up to the 16 yr French Oak offering before Balvenie hits me right and after that, the Balvenie line really shines; TUN, Second Rose, Distant Shores were all amazing.
The French Oak is good. My favourite is the 15 year old sherried single cask stuff. I've yet to try a Tun but they're the stuff of legend.
Speaking of macallan what you think of the rare cask?
Haven't had it, unfortunately.
Chill filtered and 43% abv makes it hard to spend $400 on it but the dark natural color and the gorgeous bottle is tempting 🥴
What’s your top 2 or 3 balvenie?
The better batches of the 15 sherry were some of the best sherried whisky I've had. The 21 port wood is excellent. Can't think of a 3rd. I'm dreaming of the day that I get to try a Tun.
@@Gwhisky I’ve heard mixed reviews which makes it hard to spend $500 on it ☹️ Thanks for the reply love your work!
The Balvenie is totally hit or miss. I have not tried this one. The 15 is amazing. The 12 first filled is great. The double wood and Caribbean are terrible. The 18 is not worth the price
Double wood to me is better than this. It's not bad but kinda bland mid palate. I wouldn't buy it again.