The Balvenie 17-Year Doublewood has undergone a significant change in recent years. In 2021, the decision was made to discontinue this particular expression from their lineup. This news came as a disappointment to many whisky enthusiasts who had come to appreciate and enjoy the unique qualities of the 17-Year Doublewood.
The Balvenie 17-Year Doublewood was known for its distinctive maturation process, which involved aging the whisky in two different types of casks. Initially, the spirit spent time in traditional oak whisky casks, which imparted a rich and mellow character. It was then transferred to sherry casks, where it acquired additional depth and complexity.
This double maturation process gave the Balvenie 17-Year Doublewood its name and contributed to its unique flavor profile. The whisky showcased a harmonious blend of sweet notes from the sherry casks and the smoothness of the oak casks. This combination resulted in a well-balanced and approachable whisky that appealed to a wide range of palates.
However, despite its popularity, The Balvenie made the decision to discontinue the 17-Year Doublewood in 2021. While the exact reasons for this discontinuation are not explicitly stated by the distillery, it is not uncommon for whisky brands to make changes to their range in order to meet evolving market demands and to focus on new expressions.
The discontinuation of the Balvenie 17-Year Doublewood has had a notable impact on the whisky market. As supplies dwindle, the remaining bottles have become increasingly sought after, driving up the price significantly. What was once priced at around $129.99 now averages at approximately $179.99, according to winesearcher.com.
This price increase may be attributed to the rarity of the remaining bottles and the growing demand from collectors and enthusiasts who wish to add this expression to their whisky collection before it becomes even harder to find.
As a sommelier and whisky enthusiast myself, I have had the opportunity to taste the Balvenie 17-Year Doublewood before its discontinuation. I found it to be a truly enjoyable whisky, with a lovely balance of flavors and a smooth, lingering finish. The combination of the sweet sherry influence and the oak notes created a delightful complexity that made it a standout among other expressions in The Balvenie range.
For those who have yet to try the Balvenie 17-Year Doublewood, I would highly recommend seeking out a bottle if you have the chance. Its discontinuation makes it a more limited and special release, and it is a whisky that truly exemplified the craftsmanship and quality that The Balvenie is known for.
The Balvenie 17-Year Doublewood has been discontinued by the distillery, leaving behind a void in their range of expressions. Its unique double maturation process and well-balanced flavors made it a favorite among whisky enthusiasts. However, with its discontinuation, the remaining bottles have become increasingly valuable and harder to find, leading to a significant price increase. If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to experience this exceptional whisky before it becomes even scarcer.