Scotch Whisky is a true crafted spirit; and one that involves many steps to create and the final result almost always lives up to the effort put into its production. Single Malt Scotch Whisky requires that it be produced in Scotland, made from 100% malted barley and distilled at a single distillery. From grain to glass, the Scotch craftsmen oversee its entire evolution ensuring a spirit full of complexity and character.
Balvenie’s Malt Master, David Stewart has been with the distillery for over 45 years. He is the individual responsible for choosing which casks to craft their unique Scotches, knowing the characteristics of each cask and which proportions will create the ideal blend. For the anniversary of his 45th year with the company, he was asked to create a “Signature” Scotch.Scotch is the sort of spirit that had me at "hello", so it was a treat to delve deeper into the category with David Mair, Ambassador for The Balvenie Scotch during his recent visit to Los Angeles. Mair explained some characteristics which set The Balvenie brand apart from other Scotches in its class, the most distinguishable being the “Five Crafts” of Balvenie production. The process begins with growing their own barley on premise at the distillery, followed by their own floor maltings where the grains are spread and hand turned until ready to be dried. On-site coopers both build and maintain each of the barrels to ensure the perfect aging while the coppersmiths are responsible for creating and maintaining the vital copper stills. Finally, there is of course David Stewart himself and his hand-selection of each cask that creates a Balvenie Scotch.
The evening began with a Blood-and-Sand cocktail featuring equal parts Balvenie, fresh orange juice, Cherry Herring and sweet vermouth. Next, guests were presented with a tasting of Stewart’s Signature 12 year blend—a rich dram with full notes of oak, spice, vanilla and honey. To compliment this particular Scotch, guests participated in a unique tasting of the 3 cask strength Scotches that comprised this “Signature” blend. Bourbon, vanilla, and sweet Oloroso Sherry were among the dominant flavors detected among the individual casks selected. Each guest was provided with a small measuring cup, filter and glass bottle, and was invited to create our own “signature” blend of Balvenie using the same method Stewart himself employs.
Guests finished the evening with a sweeter taste of both the Madeira Cask 17 and Portwood 21 Scotches alongside a decadent crème brulee. For anyone with a sweet tooth and a love a Scotch, letting the crispy shell of crème brulee melt in your mouth while sipping a Scotch aged 21 years in oak followed by a Port Wine cask, is a heavenly pairing.
From barley to bottle, the craftsmanship involved in The Balvenie production will easily earn your respect and admiration. The ability to enjoy it in a cocktail or on it’s own will easily have it filling your glass again and again.