Previously on the Stories Range...
We learned about the many traditions the 130 year-old Single Malt continues to uphold, but more importantly, the power of stories when it comes to whisky. Especially when the signature technique of cask finishing (allowing the whisky to mature in a second cask type) was pioneered within this very house.
As poetically penned in Pursuit, a specialised brand book: This is when the more complex flavours are created, as spirit and oak enter a dialogue. Besides embodying further nuances, each expression carries an anecdote of how they came to be. This could originate from suggestions on a whim, or even pure accident. Which also means production volume is highly limited.
Think of it this way. If previous collections of the series belonged to a Season 1 of sorts under esteemed former Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE, The Balvenie now introduces you to Season 2 Episode 1: A Collection of Curious Casks.
As new Malt Master Kelsey McKechnie steps into the spotlight, the latest range celebrates her working partnership with Warehouse Master George Paterson. Honestly, the term 'new' is only customary when both craftsmen have been with the brand for a decade, and young McKechnie closely shadowing David C. Stewart MBE up to this point.
Between her inherited instincts for selecting casks and Paterson's extensive knowledge come these great stories.
The first of the two we got to savour is the American Bourbon Barrel 14. Originally destined for Single Barrel 12, the 14-year dream in Bourbon cask was distilled just after peat week, resulting in a whisper of smoke. We say whisper because it reads more of deep vanilla, roasted malt and the familiar candied orange peel.
The French Pineau Cask 18 carries a complex profile with layers of rich sweetness that we wouldn't describe as creamy but certainly dark and smooth like chocolate. It was in fact David C. Stewart MBE who commissioned the experimental choice of French Pineau casks, which never quite reached a suitable maturity. Eight years later under his apprentice's keen watch, the result was a wait that paid off.
Alongside Hungarian Red Wine Cask 11 and New Spanish Oak Cask 17, these are stories that showcase the enduring influence of time, a spirit of innovation and how a collaboration of a new generation can spell out a great future beyond the classics.
