Scottish distillery Balblair will release three new highland single malt Scotch whisky vintages exclusively in the travel retail channel next month.
The release of Balblair 2004 Vintage and the first release of Balblair 1999 Vintage come ahead of the company’s debut at the IAADFS Duty Free Show of the Americas (9-12 March). There, show visitors will have the opportunity to sample the new vintages for the first time.
Duty free retailers worldwide will carry Balblair Vintage 2004, which has been matured in bourbon barrels. Another version of Balblair Vintage 2004, which has been matured in sherry butts, will be exclusive to Asian duty free.
 |
All three vintages will be released into duty free outlets worldwide from March with the sherry matured vintage exclusive to Asia |
Balblair 2004 Bourbon Matured is described as golden in appearance with notes of citrus fruits combined with the sweetness of vanilla, coconut and honey. Balblair 2004 Sherry Matured is said to have a rich spicy note and vanilla fragrance with hints of raisins and spice. Balblair 1999 1st Release, meanwhile, has honey and vanilla notes combined with a rich spiciness and sweet toffee, according to the company.
Balblair Global Brand Manager Gillian Gibson said: “We are releasing three new vintages in response to overwhelming demand from the travel retail sector for our distinctively packaged Balblair vintages. We value our customers and wanted to provide them with something unique and special.
“Each Balblair whisky is part of a limited release of a certain vintage, selected by our Master Distiller and timed to perfection. These three releases represent a premium and exclusive choice for travelling malt scotch whisky lovers and gift-givers.”
Recommended retail prices are as follows: Balblair 2004 Bourbon Matured £44.99 (US$73.99; €54.99), Balblair 2004 Sherry Matured £49.99 (US$82.99; €59.99) and Balblair 1999 1st Release £54.99 (US$89.99; €65.99).
Established in 1790, Balblair Distillery is said to be one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland and the oldest in the Highlands.
