The Balvenie 26yo "A Day of Dark Barley" is an extraordinary single malt whisky from The Balvenie distillery, part of their notable Stories collection. This distinguished whisky, bottled in 2019, is the third release in the Stories series, known for celebrating the character, endeavor, and craftsmanship of The Balvenie's distillery team. Distilled in 1992, this malt was created using an unusual batch of dark, brittle barley as an experiment by the esteemed Malt Master David C. Stewart. Having matured gracefully for over a quarter of a century in a first-fill bourbon cask, this whisky boasts a profound and complex flavor profile. The maturation process has imparted deep oaky nuances, complemented by inviting malty aromas of soft brown sugar, vanilla, blossom honey, and a touch of gentle oak spice. On the palate, it presents a harmonious blend of sweet toffee and tangy orange, evolving into delightful notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and spicy ginger. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression of honey, oak, and spice. Bottled at a robust 47.8% ABV, this expression is notably richer and heavier than typical Balvenie whiskies. The unique use of over-roasted malted barley and the extended maturation period have created a whisky that is both complex and deeply rewarding. This 2019 release not only showcases the distillery’s commitment to quality but also tells the intriguing story behind its creation—originating from an erroneous delivery of dark barley that later inspired the 14-year-old Roasted Malt release in the mid-2000s. This exceptional cask was allowed to mature further, achieving its remarkable 26-year-old profile.
This whisky features a unique dark barley used during distillation and has matured for 26 years in a first-fill bourbon cask, offering deep, complex flavors.
Expect notes of sweet toffee, tangy orange, vanilla, toasted oak, and spicy ginger, with a rich and lingering finish of honey, oak, and spice.
The ABV (alcohol by volume) of this whisky is 47.8%, providing a bold and robust drinking experience.
This whisky is part of The Balvenie's Stories collection, which highlights the character and craftsmanship of the distillery team through unique and narrative-driven releases.
As a whisky connoisseur, I find The Balvenie 26yo "A Day of Dark Barley" to be a masterful representation of the distillery's innovative spirit and dedication to quality. The unique use of dark barley and the extended aging process in a first-fill bourbon cask create a rich, complex whisky that captivates the senses with each sip. The harmonious balance of sweet, spicy, and oaky notes makes this a standout addition to any collection.
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