Ballantine’s 17 Years Blended Scotch Whisky [750ML]

Ballantine’s Brand is a range of Blended Scotch whisky produced by Pernod Richard in Dumbarton, Scotland. The Founder, George Ballantine was a farmer’s son and at the age of 14, left home and started to learn grocer apprenticeship in Edinburg. In 1827, after five years as an apprentice, 19-year-old George Ballantine opened a new grocery in Cowgate, Edinburgh supplying a range of whiskies to his customers. In 1857, George pioneered the ‘shop and drop’ before the age of internet shopping by offering free delivery within 10 miles.

In 1865, George delegated the store’s operation to his eldest son, Archibald, while he opened a larger establishment in Glasgow where he concentrated on the wine and spirit trade, catering to clients that included the Hindu Royal Family. In 1881, the Ballantine Brand was exported worldwide.

Ballantine’s 17 Years is a Blended Scotch whisky with many awards including Jim Murray’s Scotch Blend of the Year for 2010. It was also awarded World Whisky of the Year in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible in 2011. Jim Murray wrote “This currently marks the epitome of great blending, indeed, great whisky: nowhere else can you find balance, texture, and content come together in such a sensual, graceful way.  It really is the nectar of the gods, except even they might struggle to get to the bottom of its labyrinthine complexity.”

Bottled at the standard 40% ABV.

TO THE EYES

Clear golden amber.

TO THE NOSE

Smooth vanilla and oak notes with light smoke.

TO THE PALATE

Full flavoured and complex with honey sweetness and creamy vanilla flavours with hints of oak and spicy liquorice.

TO THE END

A long sweet smooth finish with a hint of spice.