Description

The Balvenie Aged 12 Years Doublewood Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 40%           Age: 12 Years Old           Country: Scotland

The Whisky

The Balvenie 12 Year Old DoubleWood is a definitive Speyside classic and a benchmark for the “cask finishing” technique. Bottled at 40% ABV in a 700ml format, this expression spends at least 12 years in ex-Bourbon American oak barrels before being “finished” for an additional nine months in First-Fill Oloroso Sherry casks.

Originally launched in 1993 to celebrate the distillery’s centenary, DoubleWood was one of the first whiskies to successfully use “wood finishing” to create a distinct flavour profile. The Bourbon barrels mellow the spirit and impart sweet vanilla notes, while the Sherry casks provide a rich, spicy depth and a characteristic dried-fruit backbone. It is a smooth, approachable, and consistently high quality malt that has earned its place as a staple in whiskies collections worldwide.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Deep and complex. You are greeted with sweet honey and vanilla notes, followed by a rich layer of dried fruits (sultanas and raisins). There is a subtle floral lift, along with hints of orange peel and a warm, nutty undertone.

Palate: The mouthfeel is silky and beautifully balanced. Initial flavours of sweet heather honey and creamy malt lead into a mid-palate of cinnamon spice and toasted oak. The Sherry influence adds a layer of red berries, dark chocolate, and a touch of nutmeg.

Finish: Medium to long and delightfully warming. The finish lingers with a satisfying sweetness of toffee and vanilla, accompanied by a gentle, dry oak spice and a final trail of sherry soaked fruit.

The Distillery

The Balvenie Distillery, located in Dufftown, Speyside, is unique for its commitment to “The Five Rare Crafts.” Unlike most modern distilleries, Balvenie still grows its own barley, maintains its own traditional floor maltings, employs a team of on-site coopers, and has a dedicated coppersmith to look after its stills. A unique factual detail: The DoubleWood was the brainchild of David C. Stewart MBE, who recently celebrated over 60 years at the distillery and is the longest-serving Malt Master in the Scotch industry. This hands-on, traditional approach ensures that Balvenie spirit remains one of the most artisanal and consistent in Scotland.

Overall Review

The Balvenie 12 DoubleWood is widely reviewed as a “perfect” all-rounder. Critics praise its incredible balance and smooth texture, often recommending it as the ideal transition for Bourbon drinkers moving into the world of Sherry matured Scotch.