Happy 2015 readers!

I’ve reviewed Balvenie before and though it’s not in my favorite flavor group I like it, their scotches are intriguing.  I recently reviewed the 21 year port wood.  This one, 14 year Caribbean Cask, has some similarities to the 21 year port wood in that spice is a highlight of the flavor.  Whereas the 21 year was a sweet spice which reminded me of ginger bread cookies (the flavor of Christmas is what I had written) this has a darker spicy flavor, more pepper like.  Overall I do like this scotch and was impressed.

The aroma is strong, sweet and toffee like with a little citrus.  There is more flavor in the scent than in many others that just smell like ethanol.  The first taste is spicy and strong.  It’s also a little smoky or bitter but not overwhelming.  The aftertaste is a little bitter, nutty and woody.  I’d even say I taste a little leather.  Despite the clear presence of spice this is a very smooth scotch.

In my neighborhood the 14 year Caribbean Cask runs about $65-$75 per 750ml bottle depending on the time of year.  It’s not a cheap regular but definitely affordable and I will buy this again.

copyright 2015 David R Bergman