The Balvenie Tun 1401 Batch No.3

Experience the legendary craftsmanship of The Balvenie with Tun 1401 Batch No.3, a masterful marriage of aged traditional and sherry casks. This limited edition offers unparalleled complexity, delivering rich honey, dried fruits, and warming spices in every sip. A true collector's gem and a testament to Balvenie's iconic legacy.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A profound and complex aroma greets the senses from this expertly vatting. Layers of rich honey and vanilla, characteristic of Balvenie, mingle with deeper notes of dried fruits – figs, dates, and plump raisins, undoubtedly from the sherry butts. There's a delicate floral undertone, perhaps heather or orange blossom, underscored by a wisp of old leather and polished oak. A subtle nuttiness, like toasted almonds, emerges, along with a hint of warm baking spices – cinnamon and nutmeg – that promise a luxurious experience.

Palate: The palate is remarkably viscous and coating, delivering an immediate wave of sweetness balanced by a controlled oak presence. Creamy toffee and butterscotch lead the charge, interweaving with the candied fruit elements from the nose – particularly apricot and orange peel. The sherry influence provides a delightful dark chocolate and espresso bitterness, preventing it from becoming cloyingly sweet. Mid-palate, a gentle spice builds, featuring black pepper and ginger, harmoniously integrated with a faint tobacco leaf and a hint of treacle. The traditional whisky casks contribute a malty backbone and a bright, almost citrusy zest that keeps the profile vibrant.

Finish: The finish is exceptionally long and evolving, a testament to the diverse cask contributions. It begins with lingering sweet honey and dried fruit, gradually transitioning into a drying, warming oak spice. Dark chocolate and coffee notes persist, accompanied by a subtle smokiness, not peated, but rather an aged wood char. A faint whisper of floral sweetness returns at the very end, leaving a delightful and memorable impression of profound depth and balance. The 100.6 proof is beautifully integrated, providing warmth without any harshness.

About the Distillery

The Balvenie Distillery, established in 1892 in Dufftown, Speyside, Scotland, consistently produces exceptional single malt Scotch whisky. Renowned for its commitment to traditional craftsmanship, including its own malting floor and coopers, The Balvenie is an industry leader in innovative cask finishing and masterful vatting, often overseen by its legendary Malt Master, David C. Stewart MBE.