Balvenie Tun 1401 Batch 3

Sounds DELICIOUS!!! However if it's $250 USD I do believe I'd be terrified to find out what it is in AUS :D It's one of those bottles that I'd LOVE to try though!!

Did you find it in the US? Or order it from GB? Inquiring minds want to know.

I purchased my initial bottle locally in Nashville. The other two, from an online retailer, The Whisky Shop, in San Francisco. Normally, I would never spend this much on a single bottle. There is so much quality whisky to be had for under $100. However, this was exceptional, and I happened to be in the position now, to be able to justify it. My understanding is that the batch 3 is US only, but we are up to batch 5 or 6 at this point. When you consider the Balvine 21 at 150.00 US and the 30YO at 3000+, the Tun 1401, regardless of the version, is a bargain.

Thanks for the great information. I'll be looking for this in my VA ABC stores. Might be able to get it in a special order.

I completely agree with your notes regarding Batch #3 and I personally have 8 bottles in my collection. I've opened 4-5 bottles at different tastings and all my friends rant and rave about it. I have the full collection from Batch #1 to Batch #5 and having tasted all of them, Batch #3 stands alone in the spotlight.

Regards, NeatNoser

Onibubba, where do you shop in Nashville? I am in Huntsville and the selection here is less than spectacular. A 2 hour drive to check things out in a good store would definitely be a nice alternative than having to order everything.

That being said, I just purchased two bottles of Batch 3 online that should be arriving soon.

3 primary stops in Nashville: Midtown Wine and Spirits, Frugal McDoogals, and Red Dog in Franklin. I would give best overall selection to Red Dog. Frugal's is cheapest by far, but smaller selection - Still worth checking out if you are in the area.

"Baklava" - you nailed it here. I knew I was missing something in my nosing notes and this is it! Great review. I've been drinking scotch for 25 plus years and this one ranks in my top 10 all time.

@Onibubba - I love this stuff but have given up on finding a replacement bottle at anything close to original retail price. Is there any other whisky you have tasted that you would consider similar in flavour profile and quality?

@Chookster - Afraid I can only offer faint comparisons. This was a honey monster to me. Older, higher proof Clynelish have some of that character. Occasionally I will get a great Balvenie 15 that is reminencent of the Tun's profile. But honestly, I have sampled nothing quite like it because I cannot afford to. Think about it. The Tun series consists of vattings of casks in the mid 20's to the high 30's in age. Where else are you going to find a quality whisky of that age for under 300.00?

Best advice I can offer is to look in smaller city's liquor stores for old dusties. You may luck upon a treasure that would never last on the shelves in a bigger city.

@onibubba - thanks for replying. I will lean towards some clynelish at yours and numens suggestion. I have always been tempted by, but never purchase the balvenie 15, but your recommendation may be enough to get me over the line on it. Thanks.

The Balvenie 15 is not cheap either, and it is a single barrel so there can be some variation. If you can find a Balvenie sample set,usually at around 20.00, you can get a taste of the 15 along with the 21YO and the 12YO Doublewood.