The Balvenie 19 Year Old Week Of Peat

19-Year-Old Balvenie Week Of Peat Whisky is part of the The Balvenie Stories edition. It is a limited edition peated Speyside whisky, which is unusual for this distillery as it is traditionally known for its sweet character.

The idea to create a peated single malt originated in 2002, when they decided to explore how smoke would affect the character of this whisky. Instead of permanently switching to peated whisky production, they decided to introduce the tradition of "Week of Peat," during which they produce peated distillate. This takes place just before the annual maintenance and cleaning of the stills to prevent "contamination" of their classic distillate with the peated one. In the production of this whisky, they use peat from the Speyside region, resulting in a earthier distillate.

The resulting whisky was created under the supervision of Malt Master’s Apprentice - Kelsey McKechnie, who continues the legacy of David C. Stewart. It is bottled after 19 years of aging in a combination of bourbon casks and Oloroso sherry casks, at a strength of 48.3% ABV. It is colored, but bottled without chill filtration.

The aroma surprises with a subtle yet noticeable peaty smoke combined with sweet notes of vanilla, honey, and citrus fruits. The taste is elegant and smooth, with a medium-long finish. In the whisky, you can sense earthy smoke, sweet honey, creamy vanilla, cinnamon, black pepper, and a hint of citrus peel.

According to reviews, the whisky has a rich consistency but maintains its softer style with a touch of peat. It is best enjoyed neat at room temperature to allow the layers of smoke, sweetness, and spice to unfold. One or two drops of water can reveal a higher fruitiness and warming spicy character. Due to its refinement, this Scotch whisky is perfect as a digestif or a premium gift.