Balvenie launches sixth batch in Tun 1509 range

Speyside distillery The Balvenie has launched the sixth edition in its collectible Tun 1509 series, which includes liquid from three different cask types.

The sixth release in The Balvenie’s Tun 1509 series contains liquid from 21 “rare” casks

Released annually, each bottling in The Balvenie Tun 1509 series features whiskies that comprise different casks married together in the distillery’s Tun 1509, housed in Warehouse 24, for several months.

The Tun 1509 range was launched in 2014 to replace the popular Tun 1401 range, which used a smaller marrying tank.

Batch 6 of 1509 has been designed to showcase the “stock management skill” of The Balvenie’s malt master, David Stewart.

It is a combination of 21 “rare” casks spanning three types: Sherry refill butts, ex-Bourbon American oak barrels and Double Wood refill Sherry butts, which were used once to finish The Balvenie Double Wood before being refilled with new make spirit.

The liquid from the casks was left to marry in Tun 1509 for three months before being bottled at the distillery.

Every bottle of The Balvenie Tun 1509 Batch 6 comes with a breakdown chart showing details of the whisky’s composite parts and their flavours.

“Batch 6 is a truly remarkable liquid that showcases gorgeous character and rich depth produced during the marrying process,” said Stewart.

“This expression is sure to have whisky enthusiasts excited, much like the last Tun 1509 series we released a year ago.

“The liquid presents a beautiful depth on the palate with a touch of maple syrup, candied orange and runny honey. It is delightfully rich on the nose with soft brown sugar, toffee, blossom honey and ginger oak spices, and presents a sweet and malty finish featuring swathes of oak vanilla alongside a spicy layer.”

Bottled at 50.4% ABV, The Balvenie Tun 1509 Batch 6 is available now at an RRP of £300 (approximately US$370).