Balblair 2004 1st Release

Nose: Smells like French madeleines soaked in orange oil, with no detectable alcohol, vanilla, potato crackers, and prickly IPA beer – quite intriguing. The palate is also very pleasant. It presents light oriental dry spices, orange lemonade, bright nuts, and again, barely any noticeable alcohol. It's very sweet and juicy. It might otherwise be too light, but the unique spice blend gives it a flavorful punch. Much better than anticipated. I'll look into other Balblairs that might offer a bit more intensity or perhaps include some peated barley.

The aroma is pleasant, pure, and sharp, with faint touches of lemon and vanilla. It has a creamy texture on the palate; malty and sweet; with absolutely no alcohol bite. The conclusion is extended and enjoyable with a slight spicy zest in the last third of it.

Silky smooth with a brown sugar and blood orange aroma. This is ideal for unpeated Scotch. It has a creamy texture, vanilla notes, and a light citrus finish. Definitely try this.

A decent drink. Continues my trend of average Balblair ratings at 3.5. It's nice but unremarkable.

A very clear and fragrant pour. Wonderfully aged and intricate.