Description

The Balvenie 16 Year Old French Oak is one of the most unusual expressions in the Balvenie range — a Speyside single malt aged 16 years and finished in French Pineau des Charentes casks from the Cognac region, adding the honeyed, grape-must sweetness of this fortified wine to the classic Balvenie vanilla and honey base.

Pineau des Charentes is a regional French aperitif made from unfermented grape juice blended with Cognac eau-de-vie. The finish creates a distinctive French-Scottish dialogue: Balvenie’s honeyed, spiced character meeting the grape sweetness and light brandy warmth of the Charentes region.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Honeyed and elegant — fresh grape, vanilla, apricot, light brandy warmth
• Palate: Smooth and rounded — grape-must sweetness, warm spice, dried fruit, honey, and gentle Cognac-influenced warmth
• Finish: Medium-long with lingering honey, fruit sweetness, and a soft French oak fade

Specs

• Distillery: The Balvenie, Dufftown, Speyside
• Region: Speyside, Scotland
• Age Statement: 16 Years
• Cask Type: Traditional oak, finished in French Pineau des Charentes casks
• ABV: 47.6%
• Size: 750ml