Balvenie 12 Year Old DoubleWood

This was my second bottle of Scotch I bought. The decision to go with the Balvenie 12DW was for the simple reasoning that, unlike my first bottle (HP12) I wanted to try an expression without a peaty influence and a style that was "different".

I was not ready for the so called "sherry bomb" but wanted an introduction to a sherried Scotch. The B12DW seemed to fit my need and I found not to be disappointed by my choice.

*This dram review was taste tested neat, 12 oz. snifter, hand warmed.

Nose: The sherry and oak seem to volley for attention with a background of dried fruit in a very light coating of honey, hint of cinnamon.

Palate: With a thin oily slickness, a honey maltiness works along side the aged oak and young sherry influence on a soft handed spiced ride.

Finish: A medium length close with the dried fruit upfront, a soft spice fade with the oak and sherry finding harmony.

Balance: Giving this dram time and warming, I found the nose to open and the taste to really grow on me as the oak and sherry notes became more in harmony with the balance of other flavors.

I remember when I finished my first dram of B12DW and a few minutes later smelling the empty glass...ahh, cinnamon! I thought that nuance to be so cool. It's these "little" experiences that helped me realize what fun and unique this Scotch / whisk(e)y journey will be...and it is!

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