The Balvenie 14 is indeed a peaty whisky, making it a unique and interesting release from the Balvenie distillery. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and analyzing a wide range of whiskies, and I must say that the Balvenie 14 stands out for its peatiness.
When it comes to peat, it refers to the process of drying malted barley using peat smoke. This technique adds a distinct smoky flavor to the whisky, which can vary in intensity depending on the amount of peat used during the drying process. In the case of the Balvenie 14, it is made from 100% peated malt, which means that the peat smoke is a prominent characteristic of this whisky.
The aging process also plays a crucial role in shaping the flavor profile of the Balvenie 14. It has been aged in three different cask types – first-fill bourbon, refill bourbon, and sherry casks. Each of these cask types contributes unique flavors and aromas to the whisky.
The first-fill bourbon casks provide a rich sweetness and vanilla notes, which complement the smoky character of the peat. On the other hand, the refill bourbon casks allow the peaty flavors to shine through more prominently, creating a well-balanced and complex taste profile.
The addition of sherry casks adds another layer of complexity to the Balvenie 14. Sherry casks are known for imparting fruity and nutty flavors to the whisky, which can enhance the overall experience. In this case, I can imagine that the sherry casks would add a touch of sweetness and perhaps some dried fruit notes to the peaty and smoky base of the whisky.
The Balvenie 14 is likely to have exceptional smoky sweet notes, with hints of cinnamon and ginger spiciness. The combination of peat, bourbon casks, and sherry casks creates a unique and intriguing flavor profile that is worth exploring.
In my personal experience, I have found that peaty whiskies can be quite polarizing. Some people love the bold and smoky flavors, while others may find it too overpowering. If you enjoy peaty whiskies or are looking to expand your whisky palate, the Balvenie 14 would be an excellent choice to try.
To summarize, the Balvenie 14 is indeed peaty, thanks to its use of 100% peated malt. The combination of peat, bourbon casks, and sherry casks results in a whisky with exceptional smoky sweet notes, complemented by cinnamon and ginger spiciness. I highly recommend giving it a try if you are a fan of peaty whiskies or are looking to explore new flavor profiles in the world of whisky.