THIS World Whisky Day (17th May), elevate your glass and your expectations with The Balvenie – the whisky that transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences.
Rooted in the heart of Speyside, Scotland, The Balvenie stands as a rare gem in the world of luxury whisky. It is one of the last distilleries to uphold all five rare crafts of whisky-making, from growing its own barley to employing a traditional cooperage and resident coppersmith. These time-honoured methods aren’t just about nostalgia; they are the soul of The Balvenie’s distinctive character.
As whisky lovers across the globe prepare to raise a glass, The Balvenie invites discerning South African drinkers to savour more than just a dram, but a legacy of craftsmanship.
“Every bottle of The Balvenie is a testament to tradition, patience, and precision,” says Kelsey McKechnie, Master Distiller, The Balvenie. “It is whisky made the old way, not because it’s easier, but because it’s better.”
Where to Experience The Balvenie in South Africa on World Whisky Day
Celebrate World Whisky Day with a glass of The Balvenie at South Africa’s most iconic whisky destinations:
- Bascule Whisky Bar (Cape Town)
- The Whisky Library (Cape Town)
- Cause Effect Cocktail Kitchen (Cape Town)
- The House of Machines (Cape Town)
- The Lighthouse Bar at The Oyster Box Hotel (Durban)
- Alchemy Bar (Durban)
- Smoking Kills Bar (JHB)
For the more curious and adventurous, discover The Balvenie in some of South Africa’s best-kept secrets:
- Art of Duplicity – Cape Town’s prohibition-style speakeasy where mystery meets mastery.
- Smoking Kills Bar – Melville’s edgy, artistic space pairing rare spirits with unforgettable vibes.
- Ninetee33 – Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) specialises in crafted drinks in a 1920’s themed speakeasy.
Celebrate True Craftsmanship
“Our makers stay true to their craft, ensuring every bottle reflects their deep understanding and respect for the whisky-making process,” says Lifa Bakana, Senior Brand Manager at Edward Snell & Co. “It is this authenticity that makes The Balvenie truly remarkable.”
The Balvenie DoubleWood 12-Year-Old
A classic, approachable introduction to The Balvenie’s signature style. Matured in traditional oak casks before being finished in first-fill sherry casks, the 12-Year-Old DoubleWood is a smooth, rich dram that showcases the distillery’s hallmark warmth and depth.
- Nose: Sweet fruit and Oloroso sherry notes, layered with honey and a hint of spice.
- Taste: Smooth and mellow with beautifully combined flavours—nutty sweetness, cinnamon spice and a delicately proportioned layer of sherry.
- Finish: Long and warming with a gentle spice and lingering sweetness.
RSP R1399.
The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14-Year-Old
Aged for 14 years in traditional oak casks before being transferred to Caribbean rum casks for an additional period of aging, which were created by the master distiller by blending his own West Indian rums, filling it into casks and then eventually replacing the rum in the casks with Balvenie. A superbly balanced and well-rounded whisky with notes of toffee, fruit and vanilla.
- Nose: Rich with notes of tropical fruits with passion fruit and creamy toffee.
- Taste: Sweet vanilla with a creamy palate with notes of apples and mangoes and a hint of orange.
- Finish: Lingering vanilla focused character.
RSP R1989.
The Balvenie PortWood 21-Year-Old
A luxurious and complex dram, this expression is matured in traditional oak casks before a final finish in rare 30-year-old port pipes. The 21-Year-Old PortWood is a perfect union of whisky and wine, resulting in a rich, velvety spirit for the true connoisseur.
- Nose: Refined and complex, with notes of ripe raisin, dried fruit, and nuttiness alongside honeyed malt and subtle spice.
Taste: Silky smooth and full-bodied. Layers of fruit, oak, and gentle spice with a port-rich sweetness and hints of orange marmalade. - Finish: Long, gentle, and elegant with lingering notes of dried fruit and oak.
RSP R5999.
Bakana says that World Whisky Day is more than a celebration. It’s a reminder of the artistry behind every dram. “With its rare dedication to craft, The Balvenie is not just a whisky, but an authentic benchmark for those who expect more from their spirits.”
This year, join a global toast and immerse yourself in the warmth, complexity, and integrity of The Balvenie. Whether sipped neat, shared among friends, or added to a prized collection, The Balvenie is made for those who know that excellence takes time — and is worth every second.
