The Balvenie Tun 1401, Batch 9
Single Malt
The Balvenie // Speyside, Scotland
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Cost
Balvenie Tun 1401 is a very special, Non Age Statement (NAS), whisky in which David Stewart, Balvenie Master Blender, marries Scotch with ages spanning a number of decades that had been rested in 11 traditional whisky casks with 3 rested in sherry butts. Following this release, Tun 1401 batch 9, Balvenie will be suspending the 1401 series, as the production at 2000 liters was simply too small for global demand. Tun 1509 has been custom built for future special releases, with a capacity of four times as much and will be used to blend 35 American oak barrels with 7 European Sherry butts before being married for several months in warehouse 24 as was Tun 1401. The first release of Tun 1509 should be hitting shelves before Christmas, but for now, if you can still get your hands on Batch 9, it is not only going to prove to be a collector’s item, it will also be one to savor as a timeless single malt.
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ageNAS
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abv49.3
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Single MaltDistilled in pot stills from 100% malted barley, produced at one distillery, aged in barrels; if Scotch or Irish, must be aged for at least three years.
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Cask Typeused whisky and ex-sherry
Tasting Notes
"Upfront, the nose is elegant with a complex bouquet of oak, delicate spice, concentrated dark fruit and cooked citrus. The palate is rich and deep in its flavors, with big oak, dark and nutty fruits, baker’s cocoa, and just a touch of Highland honey sweetness. This whisky finishes with a lingering opulence that speaks of well aged Spanish sherry and the tannic and spicy notes of charred American oak. "
Reviewed by
Ryan Conklin