Master of Wine and wine director of Hatch Mansfield I am not a big whisky drinker ­ in fact I never touch the stuff ­ but having tasted this I can see why there are so many enthusiasts. I find it difficult to fault. Despite being somewhat crowded, the front label conveys a handmade image while providing all the information required. Reading it made me want to visit the distillery. I found the smell and taste attractive, particularly the deep, mellow flavour. It is not too peaty or singed and is delightfully smooth. Anyone who enjoys good single malt will be very satisfied with this ­ I might even drink the rest of the bottle myself this Christmas! Rating out of 25 ­ 23 Gary McCall Managing director of Poulter Partners The presentation of malt whisky puts most other categories to shame, however at the premium prices charged there is obviously more scope to invest in the packaging. There is a plethora of products using a tube presentation pack ­ a format that works well. Balvenie is presented in a confident, understated way with a number of product quality and heritage cues communicated. My issue is whether the packaging does as much as some of the more colourful competitors’ packs to encourage purchase, especially at a time of the year when gifts or once-a-year treats are a key opportunity. Rating out of 25 ­ 17 Carol Du Cann Senior buyer (beers, wines and spirit) at Alldays The bottle looks traditional and classy. It could make more of its unique qualities; growing its own barley, etc. The whisky is a lovely bronze colour and has a pronounced nose. It tastes rich and full and is particularly smooth. This would be a good choice for experienced or novice malt drinkers, as are many Speyside whiskies. Ranging malts outside the big brands, unless you are a specialist or destination shop, is difficult. The high selling price and cost of stock is daunting and just giving the stuff away is not always the answer! A good product, but obtaining full distribution will not be easy. Rating out of 25 ­ 17 Total score out of 100 ­ 78 {{DRINKS }}

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