William Grant & Sons (WGS) has extended its Cask Finishes Range with the release of The Balvenie 12 Year Old Golden Cask (43% ABV), set to debut exclusively in global travel retail this month.
Blending influences from two distinct climates, this tropical-inspired single malt whisky is matured in traditional ex-bourbon barrels before being finished in rum-seasoned casks. The result captures The Balvenie’s signature layers of warm honey and smooth vanilla.
Working at The Balvenie’s distillery in Speyside, Scotland, Malt Master Kelsey McKechnie discovered the potential in blending rums aged in the warmth of the Caribbean with those matured more slowly in Scotland. This resulted in a carefully crafted blend, designed specifically for seasoning whisky casks.
Once the sweetness has infused the casks, they are ready to be refilled with mature whisky, adding honey notes and baked tropical fruit flavours for depth and richness.
McKechnie said: “This carefully selected blend has created something truly special to season the casks and get them ready to be refilled with a 12 Year Old whisky, aged in ex-bourbon casks. This unique cask finishing process reveals a whisky that’s vibrant and tropical, yet beautifully complex.
“On the nose, you’ll find hints of ripe bananas, vanilla, subtle pecan biscuit and toffee peanut brittle. The palate is equally rich, with toasted oak, woody spice and soft sun-baked dried fruits balanced with decadent toffee and sweet malted barley. It’s a journey of flavours that we’re incredibly proud of.”
The Cask Finishes Range pays homage to The Balvenie Malt Master David C. Stewart’s pioneering whiskymaking technique, now integral to the brand.
The 12 Year Old Golden Cask is the latest addition to The Balvenie’s global travel retail-exclusive collection, alongside the 15 Year Old Madeira Cask, 18 Year Old PX Sherry Cask and 21 Year Old Portwood Cask. ✈
