Balvenie 16 Year Old French Oak Single Malt Scotch Whisky
(750 ml) - [WA 94] [IWSC 94] [USC 92]

About the Producer:

The Balvenie French Oak is a vibrant single malt finished in casks previously held wine from the French Charentes vineyards.

Pineau des Charentes is a fortified wine made from unfermented grape juice, to which a Cognac eau-de-vie is added and then matured. Pineau us also found as a home-made product in the neighboring Deau-Sevres and Vendee departements.

The Balvenie USA brand ambassador Lorne Cousin suggested Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE explore these casks after a trip to the region with his family where he fondly remembers sipping an aperitif.

This is the first of The Balvenie finishes to explore French Oak. Pineau is akin to cognac in terms of production and flavor, allowing us to capitalize on the rise of this flavor profile and its premium credentials.

95.2 proof

Tasting Notes:

NOSE: Beautifully balanced light floral notes from lotus and geranium flowers dance between hints of fresh meadow grass and pealed apple skin.

TASTE: An energizing zing from tangy lemon rind and grapefruit meet the delicate subtle sweetness of glazed fruits and spice from root ginger.

FINISH: Refreshingly concise.

Awards/Reviews 

Double Gold - Intl Spirits Challenge 2023

94 Points - Whisky Advocate

"Matured for 16 years before being finished for several months in wine casks from France’s Pineau des Charentes region. Fragrant citrus and vanilla on the nose. A complex, creamy, and smooth mouthfeel of brown sugar, chocolate, and golden raisins, all cloaked in vanilla and sprinkled with savory spice. A vanilla-tinged finish with great length."

94 Points - Intl Wine & Spirits Competition 2022

"Juicy apple pie with toasted cereal and savory succulence. Brown sugar and cinnamon-dusted pastries displaying baked apple, hot spices and vanilla sponge topped with caramelized custard."

92 Pts, Excellent/Highly Recommended - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2023

"Aromas of black pepper, beeswax fall leaves and vanilla. The cask creates an exciting expression on the flavor profile. Warm wood notes travel throughout the entire palate. Pine, ginger and caraway subtly make an appearance in the mid palate."