Balvenie Portwood 21
Balvenie Portwood 21- Skip the mortgage payment, max out the Amex…….Our subject is an elegant dandy from the copper stills nestled in the bucolic Speyside region. The nose on this richly textured malt is sweet with candied fruit and a heady whiff of warm alcohol. After 20 years in quality oak barrels, the wizards of Spey finished their jewel in Port Wine casks. The final months made all the difference. We frequently mention smoothness in refined single malts but this dude takes it to a new level. The flavors are creamy vanilla with cinnamon and toasted raisins. I found an oaky dimension with subtle chocolate notes and layers of honey. Do you think a spirit can be elegant? Can a whisky be graceful? My answer is a definite yes sir ! At 86 proof, there is just enough power for most, but adding water killed the golden goose…….The finish was medium in length and just a tad melancholy, that means the glass is empty. Savor this premier pour and share it with your friends, life is short and you can make 2 payments next month. Did I mention it’s a tad pricy? Rated a 9 on the ultra snob scale, this is one special drink.
The Single Malt Snob 