Ballantines 17 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky (750ml) - 40%

Other reviews... Sharp with a pleasing citrus element, the peat soon takes command nudging the direction to a sweeter, spicier outlook. Just the odd third fill Bourbon cask has entered the fray here, dimming the lights slightly and tanging the finale. But there is just no escaping the honeycomb centre and the depth of that smoke which hangs off it. While the intensity of the malt blasts is astounding. Slightly tarnished gold, this... 91.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2025/26

...Malt biscuits, runny caramel, blended black tea, melting butter sliding across a hot skillet, the leather uppers on new Oxfords, and a more enjoyable waft of peat smoke than expected. Clean, light flavors; lime jelly, root ginger, initially not overly sweet, then a boost of honey, caramelized fruits, with toffee and cocoa later still. It's pricked with hints of smoke throughout, with a long finish of pepper and other spices. Perfectly enjoyable anytime. 89 points - whiskyadvocate.com