Ballechin, The Discovery Series #7 (Bordeaux Cask Matured), 46%

Introduction

Ballechin is the heavily peated expression from the Edradour distillery, Scotland’s smallest traditional distillery. The Discovery Series #7 represents an adventurous marriage of robust Highland peat smoke with the refined influence of French Bordeaux wine casks.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish malted barley with a high phenol level of approximately 50 ppm, creating the signature Ballechin peat character
• Distillation process: Traditionally distilled in Edradour’s small copper pot stills, which are among the smallest in Scotland
• Maturation: Fully matured in first-fill Bordeaux wine hogsheads, allowing the rich vinous qualities to penetrate the spirit
• Special techniques: Non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV to preserve natural oils and flavor compounds

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich peat smoke intertwined with dark berries, red grapes, and hints of chocolate. Subtle notes of leather, tobacco, and a touch of earthy damp forest floor
• Palate: Full-bodied with an initial wave of robust peat, followed by red wine tannins, blackcurrants, dark cherries, and spiced oak. Layers of candied fruits and caramelized sugar balance the smokiness
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering smoke, dried fruits, and a distinctive wine-influenced sweetness that gradually fades to reveal subtle peppery notes

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat, though a few drops of water can help release additional aromatic compounds
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with high cocoa content, blue cheese, or rich game dishes that can stand up to the whisky’s robust character

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 46% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Highlands
• Certifications/Awards: Part of the acclaimed Discovery Series that has received multiple accolades from whisky critics including Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Ballechin Discovery Series #7 represents a rare intersection of traditional Scottish distilling and innovative wine cask maturation that few distilleries have mastered so elegantly.

As part of a limited series release, each bottle represents a diminishing opportunity to experience this particular expression as stocks continue to deplete worldwide.

Endorsed by whisky authorities and connoisseurs, this expression exemplifies Edradour’s mastery of small-batch production and experimental maturation techniques.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky enthusiasts and collectors have consistently sought out the Discovery Series for its reputation as a benchmark for innovative cask influence on heavily peated spirit.

Once experienced, Ballechin devotees often commit to collecting the entire Discovery Series, recognizing the distinctive journey each expression represents.

The loyal following this series has gathered speaks to its consistent quality and the anticipation that greets each new release from the Edradour distillery.

From Edradour Distillery to You

By sharing this bottle with friends or fellow whisky lovers, you extend the tradition of Scottish hospitality that has been central to whisky culture for centuries.

The approachable yet complex nature of this dram makes it an excellent conversation piece, bringing people together over shared appreciation for craftsmanship.

Joining the community of Ballechin appreciators connects you to a global family of discerning whisky enthusiasts who recognize and celebrate the art of innovative Scotch whisky production.