2013 The Whisky Cellar Private Cellars Selection Balmenach 7 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Balmenach is presently owned by Inver House Distillers who have no immediate plans to release it as an official distillery bottling. According to one report, "The reason for this is that the make – whose style is unusual these days – is too highly-prized as fillings for blends, both by Inver House and other firms." Which makes this indie edition all the more special. Finished in a Tawny Port quarter cask, it has the bonus of been bottled non-chill filtered at cask strength. We received a 20ml sample. This is a sweet, ample malt on both the nose and palate, with a balanced injection of fruitiness from the secondary maturation. Though not complex, its generous weight and mouthfeel are matched by an easy-approachability, even at natural strength. From a tiny outturn of just 97 bottles. 54.5%. Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.