Balvenie 17yr Sherry Oak (2007) Review

• 17 years old
• 43% ABV
• 1st fill oloroso maturation

A friend was kind enough to pass on a sample of this older, limited edition Balvenie release. Considering the Toronto Whisky Society is having a Balvenie event tonight, I figured it was an appropriate time to post one of my favourite releases by the distillery.

Nose: Espresso, orange peel, leather, cinnamon, raisins, rich caramel

Palate: Leather, raisins, nutmeg, cinnamon, tobacco, espresso, red chili flakes, maple syrup.

Finish: Medium in length. Espresso, raisins, red chili flakes, leather, cinnamon, maple syrup. Drying and spicy.

Score: 87

Surprising amount of flavor for a 43% Balvenie. Tons of spice and sherry influence. The oloroso sherry compliments the honey profile of Balvenie wonderfully. Always a pleasure to try an older Balvenie release matured in sherry, port or wine.