Ballantine's 7 Year American Barrel

Ballantine’s blended Scotch whisky range was released in September 2020. Created by Sandy Hyslop, Ballantine’s 7-Year-Old American Barrel Finish, was distilled by blending single malts and single grain whiskies for a traditional Ballantine’s expression with a minimum age of seven years before finishing in ex-bourbon casks sourced from Kentucky. The Ballantine 7 is inspired by George Ballantine, who started selling his 7-year-old whisky in the 1870s. First produced in 1869 by Edinburgh grocer George Ballantine, his business expanded into wines and spirits as Ballantine started blending whiskies as others were doing around Scotland at the time, including William Teacher and Arthur Bell. The extensive range of Ballantine’s is now in second place for total volume sales and sells 70 million bottles a year. Ballantine’s 7’s is a bright golden yellow, the nose initially sweet and vibrant. Aromas of vanilla and butterscotch lead the way, joined by fresh red apple and toffee. Underneath are further aromas of honey, a hint of golden syrup, plus sultana and cocoa powder with late hints of poached pear and cinnamon. On the palate, this whisky is creamy and soft. The butterscotch and toffee lead the way and are supported by vanilla and a hint of soft coconut, which accentuates the creamy feel. Best enjoyed in an old-fashioned manner, mix Ballantine’s 7 American Barrel and a couple of dashes of orange bitters to complement the sweet notes of the whisky.