Combining time honoured Balvenie practices with a new curiosity for the latent potential of their most remarkable aged casks, the Rare Marriage expressions are first and foremost a celebration of the art of blending. Revered Malt Master, David Stewart MBE, has drawn the 25 Year Old from a careful selection of traditional American and European oak barrels matured for at least a quarter of a century, bringing together individual casks to create bottles of exceptional balance and depth. The classic flavour profiles to be expected in every Balvenie are here exhibited with rare precision, presenting rich chords of vanilla, oak, crystallised ginger, and smooth honey. As it is held on the palate, the whisky unfurls to reveal further tones of fresh orchard fruits, toasted marshmallow, and dusty winter spices, a continual interplay between simplicity and sophistication that simply commands admiration. Perfect Serve – To best appreciate the distinction of The Balvenie 25 Year Old, pour a neat dram and allow it to breathe for several minutes before taking slow, attentive sips.