Miltonduff 15yo Ballantine's Series #002 American Oak Casks 40% 700ml

The Miltonduff 15-year-old Single Malt is a captivating offering from the renowned Speyside region. Distilled at the Miltonduff Distillery, this whisky is a cornerstone in the Ballantine's blend, known for bringing warmth and power to the mix. Aged for 15 years and bottled in 2017, this expression is matured in American Oak casks and boasts an ABV of 40%, delivered in a 700ml bottle. The whisky presents itself in a visually appealing dark gold hue, inviting both novices and seasoned whisky enthusiasts alike. Commanding a floral profile with subtle hints of cinnamon spice, it treats the palate to gentle liquorice flavors and concludes with a long, warm finish. The nose offers a bouquet of friendly aromas, characterized by vanilla, toasted coconut, mint, and yellow fruit, complemented by wood, allspice, and dried raisins. On the palate, it starts juicy with raisins and yellow fruit before transitioning to creamy notes of butter, vanilla, and pastry, rounded out with wax and mint. Its finish is quite short, leaving behind a touch of spice, honeyed malt, and toasted muesli, making it an easy-going dram suitable for a wide audience. While it may not stand out with unique selling points, this whisky is a solid introduction to Miltonduff's distinct malt, offering good value for money.

FAQs

• What makes the Miltonduff 15yo unique in the Ballantine's series?

  This whisky serves as the foundation of the Ballantine's blend, known for its warmth, power, and smooth floral profile with subtle spice.

• Is this whisky suitable for beginners?

  Yes, the Miltonduff 15yo is an easy-going dram that may please a large crowd, making it a great choice for those new to whisky.

• What is the visual appeal of this whisky?

  The whisky has a visually appealing dark gold color, adding to its overall attractiveness.

Tasting Notes

• Aroma: Cinnamon, nutmeg, pie spice, liquorice, floral notes, vanilla, toasted coconut, mint, yellow fruit, wood, allspice, raisins, green fruits, lime, dry hay, honey.
• Taste: Dried fruit, grass, spice, pie spice, ginger, juicy raisins, yellow fruit, butter, vanilla, pastry, wax, mint, caramel fruits, bergamot, sunflower oil, pear, apple, pineapple, nutty, lemon zest, grapefruit.
• Finish: Spicy, long, lingering notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, honey, malt, toasted muesli, bitter grape seed, white grapes, oak bitterness, slightly warming, short-medium length.
• Overall: The Miltonduff 15yo Ballantine's Series #002 American Oak Casks offers a complex and multifaceted taste experience, characterized by warm spices, dried fruit, and a hint of smokiness. It starts with a friendly and inviting nose, followed by a juicy and creamy palate, and concludes with a warm, slightly bitter finish. This whisky is a well-balanced, approachable dram ideal for both beginners and seasoned whisky drinkers.

Reviewer's Opinion

The Miltonduff 15yo Ballantine's Series #002 is a versatile and approachable whisky that caters well to a broad audience. While it may not dazzle with unique characteristics, it excels in offering a smooth and enjoyable experience. The combination of warm spices, dried fruit, and subtle smokiness makes it a commendable choice for both newcomers and whisky enthusiasts. Its presentation is visually appealing, and its modest complexity ensures it remains accessible. Overall, this is a solid addition to the Ballantine's series, offering good value for money.