Ballantine’s unveils Signature Oak Edition in TR

Ballantine’s Signature Oak Edition – European Oak is the first of two new limited editions to be released exclusively in travel retail.

Ballantine’s Signature Oak Edition – European Oak is bottled from a selection of whiskies matured in sherry casks of European oak, and will be followed with the release of a second Signature Edition created with American oak.

The European oak is said to have a “very specific” effect on the single malt whiskies, enhancing the notes of “raisin, fruitcake, sherry and spice” within the 21 Year Old blend.

Ballantine’s master blender Sandy Hyslop said: “I nose each and every cask to ensure a balance between the liquid and the wood, something George Ballantine – a pioneer in the art of maturing whisky in quality casks – would have approved of.

“With the Ballantine’s 21 Year Old Signature Oak Editions, I wanted to pay tribute to our founder and release expressions that demonstrate to consumers how cask maturation and oak influence transform our whisky.”

Peter Moore, global brand director for Ballantine’s, added: “Supporting the launch of the Ballantine’s 21 Year Old Signature Oak Edition – European Oak, our global travel retail displays will highlight different elements that consumers can relate to.

“We will focus on colour, taste and smell to showcase how European oak casks produce a very specific effect on our selected malts, enhancing the quality and personality of our whisky.”

Ballantine’s 21 Year Old Signature Oak Edition – European Oak is bottled at 40% abv and available to purchase at an RRP of US$225.