Balblair Distillery is one you must visit both physically if you get the chance, and on your palate if you have not yet done so. One of the most visually pleasing distilleries in a wonderful Highland setting. And whisky that is sure to suit the palates of many. But that’s not because its designed to suit the masses. No, it’s simply fantastic whisky. There is a strong sense of tradition at Balblair. Red brick chimney, pagoda roof and dunnage warehouses. And this care, attention and respect for the distillery is reflected in the quality of the whisky. Now, Balblair have released some brand new vintages and we have been lucky enough to sample.

Vintage Whisky

One of the most notable aspect of Balblair whisky is their focus on whisky vintage and not age statement. You still get the indication of age by the vintage year and bottling year but it is about the casks being ready, when they are ready each year. It’s a nice little USP and one which is very well received among the vast swathes of whisky releases. 2018 sees the the release of two brand new expressions:- Balblair 1991 Vintage and Balblair 2000 Vintage. Here at TheWhiskyBarrel.com these added to the already available 2005 Vintage Balblair, making a fantastic trio of whiskies to compare.

Balblair 2005 Vintage 46%

The 2005 vintage Balblair is a lovely whisky. This 1st release was bottled in 2017 making it at least 11 years old. Classic Balblair notes of green apples and a hint of citrus. Definite youth but gives up a nice rawness to the Balblair character here. A touch of water brings out the fruits a touch more too over the notes of bitter tobacco/leather. This is certainly a dram that lets you explore the clear character of this distillery. Quite sharp and to the point. But it is these two older vintages which really let you delve further into the depths of Balblair Whisky, and the warehouse.

Balblair 2000 Vintage 46%

The Balblair 2000 vintage 2nd release bottled 2017. Aged at least 16 years old, this  takes a clear step up. The nose is lovely. Freshly baked warm spiced apple crumble. On the palate it goes a little more tropical with pineapple but with the additional of runny sweet honey and hints of dried coconut. The finish is nice and long, running. Pleasant spices and hints of malted barley. Our recommendation – a definite buy. With a bit of time as well it all opens a little more with all the flavours mellowing in lovely harmony. Sherry and bourbon cask maturation working perfectly.

But there is no ignoring, that the brand new Balblair 1991 vintage is what we are keen to get stuck into.

Balblair 1991 Vintage 3rd Release Bottled 2018 46%

The now gone but not forgotten Balblair 1990 vintage was a firm favourite. This 1991 vintage Balblair whisky aged at least 26 years follows suit.   It has a luxurious mouthfeel. Fantastically balanced influence of each cask type both on the nose and palate. A lovely level of complexity. Time opens it right up and lets it relax even more. Not just a few minutes, but let is sit for 5 or 10 minutes and you will notice the change. Citrus fruits soften into ripe soft fruit with a little kick of liquorice and spice. But it’s so very smooth and creamy on the palate -milk chocolate and a smooth fruit compote. The finish pops up with more spices and a lovely sherried fruit cake dipped in warm luxury milk chocolate. This is fine whisky.

Balblair whisky is one of those distilleries you should not be afraid to recommend to a novice. They are highly likely to enjoy it. But also, if you are a whisky lover, you need to give Balblair whisky a go. In particular, this older 1991 vintage will surely float your whisky boat.

All three are available to buy online now at TheWhiskyBarrel.com