No one knows exactly when this bottle of Ballantines was produced, but the bottle is from around 1952. Since everyone is always saying that old blends are better than most single malts are now, I thought it a good idea to try some.

The only hint of its age is on the label where it states that the brand was established in 1827 and it has been in use for over 125 years. A quick sum makes this whisky from at least 1952. The ad on the website says 1940, however.

Nose:
A typical ‘blended’ scent to it. A lightness that you don’t often find in single malts. Some cereal, a little wood, old lemon, malt. Slightly floral with some heather. Nothing too spectacular.

Taste:
The flavour profile is very light with a hint of cardboard. Again rather floral with a slight touch of wood and lemon.

Finish:
The finish is much longer than I am used to from these entry level blends. Much, much better than current Ballantines with a full creamy feel to it.

I expected much more of this. Of course, not every edition can be great but something this old should have had a bit more body to it. Or at least, that’s what I was expecting. This is a bit of a friend to all. Not spectacular.

I heard, after tasting this, that most Ballantines from BEFORE the 40’s are much better than the ones from after. Apparently there is quite some knowledge about these old spirits to be found…

Ballantines +/- 1952, 40%, 2.5cl samples available at €8.50 at Rare Whisky Site

Nose: 4
Taste: 3
Finish: 6
Overal experience: 5
Price/quality: 0

Total: 18 points