Balblair 1997

The rolling hills of the highlands seldom disappoint, whether it be their whisky or natural beauty you are after. Located within them is the distillery of Balblair, which is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland –having been officially established in 1790 – yet they do not hold the recognition within the whisky world which you would expect from their history. They are by no means unknown to connoisseurs’ and regular drinkers, but they deserve to be known far more widely than they are.

What I’m taking a look at today is the expression titled 1997, which sells around the $45-55 mark. This is a perfect drink for beginner drinkers and those who enjoy a sweeter whisky. The nose is absolutely packed with fruitiness: banana, pineapple, melon, lemon – you name it! It is also very refreshing and there is definitely some mint in there, along with cinnamon and cloves.

The palate is also very fruity, right from the start you’re hit with a virtual punchbowl of exotic flavors; predominately pineapple, but also melon, papaya and banana, and a hint lovely mellow oak. The refreshing mint and cinnamon return on the finish and is absolutely gorgeous.

Definitely worth having in your cupboard, if not for yourselves then as a good whisky to use when introducing friends to the various flavors that can be found in whisky.

Color: like that of a light, dry sherry.

Nose: Fruit! Pineapple, banana, melon, lemon. Also mint and cinnamon.

Taste: Exotic fruits: pineapple, lemon, papaya, banana, etc. Lovely refreshing mint and cinnamon finish.

Want to buy this whisky? Available in: USA & World (click), UK & World (click)