Whisky Review/Tasting: Balmenach 1999 Gordon & MacPhail

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Balmenach Distillery, Speyside, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in refill sherry hogsheads.
Age Statement: Distilled in 2004 and bottled in 2012, making it approximately 8 years old.
Color and Clarity: Natural color, non-chill filtered.
Bottle Design: Part of the Connoisseurs Choice series by Gordon & MacPhail, featuring detailed distillery information on the back label.

Nose: Light and fresh with hints of aniseed, cream soda, and freshly cut grass. Vanilla and fruitiness become more apparent as the nose adjusts.
Palate: Sweet and fruity with ripe bananas, a subtle nutty edge (hazelnut, walnut), and a smooth buttery finish. The spiciness from the oak hogsheads pushes the aniseed to the background.
Overall Balance: A complex balance of light freshness, spiciness, and fruitiness with a standout aniseed aroma.

Historical Note: Balmenach was one of the first distilleries to become legitimate after the Licensing Act of 1823, marking a significant shift in Scotch whisky production from illicit to legal.
Series Evolution: The Connoisseurs Choice series by Gordon & MacPhail has evolved since the 1960s, increasing ABV, eliminating chill filtering and coloring, and transitioning to cork closures.

Geographical Location: Located in the west of Speyside, a region renowned for its whisky production. The distillery's setting in the hargs of Crumdale adds to its traditional Scottish charm.
Legislative Impact: The Licensing Act of 1823 played a crucial role in shaping the Scotch whisky industry, allowing distilleries like Balmenach to operate legally.

"One of the whiskies I prefer most." - Horst Luening, indicating a personal preference for unchill filtered, non-colored whiskies.
"An extreme anise aroma which is very taking control of your nose." - Highlighting the unique and dominant aniseed note in the whisky's profile.

Balmenach 1999 Gordon & MacPhail is an 8-year-old single malt from Speyside, matured in refill sherry hogsheads.
It features a natural color, is non-chill filtered, and has a flavor profile dominated by aniseed, with notes of cream soda, freshly cut grass, ripe bananas, and a nutty edge.
The whisky has historical significance as Balmenach was among the first distilleries legalized post-1823 Licensing Act.
The Connoisseurs Choice series has evolved to emphasize natural whisky characteristics and craftsmanship.
Horst Luening praises the whisky for its unique anise aroma and the balance of lightness, spiciness, and fruitiness.

For the Anise Lover: Individuals who enjoy the distinct flavor of aniseed will find this whisky particularly appealing.
Speyside Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the typical characteristics of Speyside whiskies will enjoy exploring this unique expression.
Whisky History Buffs: Anyone interested in the historical aspects of Scotch whisky production and the evolution of whisky laws will find the backstory of Balmenach compelling.
Connoisseurs Seeking Complexity: Experienced whisky drinkers looking for a complex and evolving flavor profile will appreciate the balance and depth of this expression.