Ballantines Finest

Ballantines Finest. Produced in Dumbarton Scotland for Pernod Ricard. Their flavor profile is based off of a combination of 50 single malts and 4 single grains most notably Miltonduff and Glenburgie. Bought for an easy $20 as it was being phased off of the shelf at a college town liquor store.

40% ABV

Color: Light Gold

Nose: Immediately sweet with fresh white fruits (apples and pears) in a simple syrup, iced shortbread, barley malt, gently floral (non-specific), bits of toffee and more icing. Very sweet and expressive start.

Body: Medium legs moving at a slower pace. Rich overall.

Taste: Barley malt, caramel, fudge, red delicious apple slices, gentle forest notes in the form of forest floor. A bit of earthy peat.

Finish: Lingers a bit. Soft and very smooth. No discernible burn. Some malt, a bit of fudge, and a light dusting of wet earth and wood ash.

Overall: All of the place? Yes. It is also a blend. Enjoyable in that right? Yes. I like that it has a bit of everything there. Its fun that way. Not sure if Id score this a 96 (2014) by Mr. Murray but I couldn't complain if this was at a bar.

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