Ballantines 17 Year Old

I was going to save this for New Year's, but fuck it - I had to try it as soon as I got home (New Year's will be champagne, let's face it). This whisky is absolutely luxurious, and possibly the best blend I've ever had. Light honey amber colour, coats the glass nicely when you swirl. A lot in the nose: floral and citrusy, nutty and some peatiness in the background. Creamy mouthfeel, with more peat and hay, resulting in a warming yet dry medium-to-long finish. But wait! Add a little water - and wow. More malt on the nose but then the taste brings out more creaminess, vanilla and smoke, with a little maple there as well. Tangerine is added to the finish. This is the highlight of my day, and it pains me to put this back in the cabinet to save for another day.

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