Frequently Asked Questions
Ballantine's 12 Year Blended Scotch Whisky is a masterfully crafted spirit that combines over fifty malt and grain whiskies, each aged for a minimum of 12 years, to deliver a rich and complex tasting experience. With a golden honey hue, this blend opens on the nose with sweet notes of honey, oak, and vanilla. Its palate is exquisitely balanced, offering layers of creamy toffee, floral undertones, and hints of ripe fruits like apples and pears, all underpinned by a subtle spiced complexity. The creamy texture and silky mouthfeel give way to a long, refreshing finish with lingering sweet oak and gentle spices. Perfectly suited for both neat sipping and classic whisky cocktails, Ballantine's 12 Year is a timeless choice for connoisseurs seeking sophistication and flavor harmony in every glass.
Process & Profile
Crafted with precision and tradition, Ballantine's 12 Year Blended Scotch Whisky is a sophisticated blend of over 50 single malts and grain whiskies sourced from across Scotland. Notable contributions come from Miltonduff and Glenburgie, which add balance and complexity. Each whisky in the blend is aged for a minimum of 12 years in high-quality oak casks, allowing for the development of a rich, creamy profile with subtle sherry and oak influences. Bottled at 40% ABV, this whisky represents the mastery of Ballantine's blending artistry, continuing a legacy that dates back to 1827.Tasting Notes
- Nose: The aroma is enticing with sweet sherry notes, fresh fruits like apples and pears, vanilla, and a touch of oak spice, underscored by a creamy floral essence.
- Palate: Rich and inviting, the palate showcases a blend of honey, caramel, toffee, and buttery pastry, with hints of mocha and a touch of warm spices. The creamy and velvety texture creates a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Finish: The finish is elegant and lingering, starting sweet with holiday spices like clove and nutmeg, then transitioning to a gentle, bittersweet oak and fruit fade.
What Makes It Special
Ballantine's 12 Year stands out as a gateway to premium blended Scotch whiskies. Its complex flavor profile, achieved through the meticulous blending of malt and grain whiskies aged for over a decade, delivers a refined yet approachable drinking experience. Awarded Gold and Silver medals at various international competitions, it embodies an exceptional balance of tradition and innovation. The use of ex-bourbon barrels during maturation adds a subtle spiciness and depth, making it a standout choice for those who value quality and craftsmanship.How to Enjoy
Ballantine's 12 Year Blended Scotch Whisky is incredibly versatile, offering multiple ways to savor its rich flavors:- Neat: Enjoy straight to experience its full complexity and creamy mouthfeel.
- On the Rocks: Serve over ice for a chilled, refreshing take that highlights its fruit and spice notes.
- Highball: Mix with soda water for a crisp, light cocktail that brings out its floral and honeyed nuances.
- Cocktails: Perfect for classic whisky cocktails such as a Whisky Sour or Penicillin, where its smooth profile shines without overpowering other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ballantine's 12 Year Blended Scotch Whisky?
Ballantine's 12 Year Blended Scotch Whisky is a premium blended whisky crafted from a selection of single malt and grain whiskies, all aged for a minimum of 12 years. It is recognized for its harmonious balance of flavors, including honeyed sweetness, oak, subtle fruit, spice, and a creamy texture that leads to a refreshing finish.
What does the whisky taste like?
The whisky features layers of honey and vanilla sweetness on the nose, complemented by fruity notes like apple and pear, creamy oak, and subtle smokiness. The palate is rich and creamy with hints of toffee and spices, concluding with a lingering finish of salty toffee and vanilla fudge.
How should I serve Ballantine's 12 Year Old?
It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the base for a classic whisky cocktail. Adding a few drops of water can help smooth out its spicier notes and enhance the creamy sweetness.
What does the "12 Year" age statement mean?
The age statement indicates that the youngest whisky in the blend has been matured for at least 12 years in oak casks. While every whisky in the blend gains complexity from this maturation process, many components may be older than 12 years.
Is Ballantine's 12 Year Old suitable for vegans or vegetarians?
Yes, this whisky is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians as its production process does not involve any animal-derived ingredients.
Is Ballantine's 12 Year Old gluten-free?
Yes, the product is gluten-free. While it is made using grains, the distillation process removes any gluten present, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities. However, consult your doctor if you have allergies or concerns.
What is the alcohol content of Ballantine's 12 Year?
The whisky has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 40%.
How long does an opened bottle of Ballantine's 12 Year Old stay good?
If stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, an opened bottle can maintain its quality for an extended period. However, prolonged exposure to air can slightly alter its flavor over time.
Does whisky expire?
Whisky does not expire as it does not mature in the bottle. An unopened bottle has an unlimited shelf life if stored properly.
What makes this whisky unique compared to others?
Ballantine's 12 Year Old stands out for its artful blending of over 50 whiskies, including core malts like Miltonduff and Glenburgie, offering a complex yet approachable profile. It combines exceptional quality with affordability, making it a versatile choice for both casual sipping and special occasions.
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