2006 Balmenach "Old Particular" 11 Year Old K&L Exclusive Speyside Single Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)

Notes

The Balmenach Distillery is one of Speyside's oldest. Originally licensed to James McGregor in 1824, it was likely running illicitly for years before. The distillery sits hidden behind Lethendry Hill on the banks of the river Spey outside the town of Cromdale. The distillery changed hands many times over the last two centuries and was mothballed on occasion as well. In 1997, the distillery was sold to current owners, Inver House, who also sell the Balblair, Old Pultney, Knockdhu, and Speyburn whiskies. All of those brands have taken center stage over the last decade or so, while the distillery in Cromdale remains more or less unknown to the outside world. Save for a few old Flora & Fauna official bottlings, the Balmenach name is not really marketed and the distillery produces primarily for blending. While the distillery isn't an architectural stunner, the stark white buildings on the green landscape can be quite beautiful. Equally beautiful is the fine spirit coming out of the six pot stills on site. The distillery continues to use worm tubs to condense their spirit and the relatively tall thin necks of the still provide elegance to the spirit. The resulting whisky is full of rich maltiness and peppery spice. If you love the malt-driven Speyside style, then this Balmenach is a must-try at this price. Whisky snobs will probably snort at the unknown here, but the adventurous will be roundly rewarded for trying something new. At this price you can afford to risk it!