Balvenie Peat Week
Country – Region: Scotland – Speyside
Distillery: The Balvenie
Type: Single Malt
Age: 14
Cask: American Oak
ABV: 48.3%
Proof: 96.6

Nose: Beautiful peat smoke, vanilla, sweet barley damp earth and honeysuckle. Summer flowers are introduced after the initial peaty feeling in a great balance.
Palate: Peat has a domination in the palate. Citrus, peppers, caramel and pine honey accompanies in a round, silky texture. So easy to drink!
Finish:  A pleasing finish with barley, vanilla and stone fruit with the underlying camp fire. A gentle, savory and lingering finish.

One of the most sought after whiskies on the social media nowadays is called The Balvenie Peat Week.

This 14 years old whisky is a result of trials by The Balvenie Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE and the former distillery manager Ian Millar.

Balvenie spent a week in each year from 2002 to 2014 to produce a heavily peated Speyside malt whisky. This one I am reviewing, 2002 Vintage was produced almost 15 years ago, between September 9th-15th 2002.

Balvenie Peat Week 2002 Vintage reveals the distinct composition difference between Islay peat and Highland Peat. Highland peat has less phenol than Islay peat but more non phenolic composition resulting in less medicinal but more earthy and smoky profile.

After hearing about 30ppm, I was expecting a hefty and bold peaty whisky from Balvenie Peat Week, though I am glad to say that this dram was so much gentler than I have expected.

I do think that, 14 years is a great age for Balvenie whiskies as also can be referred from The Caribbean Cask, which is a work of art.

The balance and versatility is of importance for this whisky. It is a big pleasure to sip and I can honestly say that has a great finish! Ones who are in pursuit of a peat monster should think twice but who are in search of a Speyside malt with a great balance of peat should definitely try The Balvenie Peat Week 2002 Vintage!