BALBLAIR 2001: NEW VINTAGE, NEW LOOK, NEW HOME

Rarely has a small Highland distillery so many exciting things to communicate at once! First and foremost, Balblair Single Malt is proud to announce the launch of its new vintage expression, Balblair 2001. The whisky, presented in an updated packaging, has been unveiled earlier today at Balblair’s Brand Home – a stunning new visitor facility at the distillery.

This first release of Balblair 2001 (bottled 2011) is a natural progression from previous expressions but three significant changes have been introduced and will from now on become a standard throughout the range.

• Balblair 2001 is bottled at 46% ABV
• Balblair 2001 is non chill-filtered
• Balblair 2001 in bottled at its natural colour

Distillery Manager John MacDonald commented on the changes: “We are delighted to be introducing this expression at a higher strength, uncoloured and non chill-filtered. Much time and care has gone into creating this malt and I am confident that whisky enthusiasts the world over will really enjoy this latest Balblair.”

Balblair 2001 was matured entirely in top quality White American Oak, ex-bourbon casks and therefore typical Balblair aromas of pineapple, pear and citrus are beautifully rounded off by vanilla and exotic spices. The palate is richly sweet and bursting with fresh orchard fruit. It finishes slowly and smoothly.

Speaking about the new Balblair vintage, Brand Manager Andy Hannah made a reference to the updated packaging: “The new look Balblair represents an evolution of what is already a stand-out piece of packaging within the malt category. Improved brand visibility and enhanced material finishes will help support the brand’s continued growth. The distinctive and colourful Balblair box remains, although slightly reduced in width – this means that we use less packaging and it is more convenient for trade and consumers alike.”

Balblair 2001 has been unveiled today at Balblair’s Brand Home. The new facility occupies old malting barn at the distillery and offers a tasting and brand education experience enhanced by audio-visual presentations. A small brand shop is now also operational and offers a rare opportunity to fill your own bottle of Balblair straight from the cask.

More generally about Balblair (Notes)

• Balblair is the second oldest working distillery in Scotland. It was established in 1790 by John Ross.
• Today, over two centuries later, four of the nine Balblair Distillery craftsmen still have the surname Ross.
• At Balblair only Vintages are ever released. Whiskies that have reached their absolute peak of perfection.
• Currently available Balblair Vintages include: 2000 (now being replaced by 2001!), 1991 (USA exclusive), 1990 (travel retail), 1995 (Swedish exclusive), 1989 (2nd release), 1978 and 1965.