Ballantine’s unveils third 40YO whisky
Chivas Brothers-owned Scotch whisky Ballantine’s has revealed the third edition of its 40 Year Old Masterclass Collection, titled The Moment.
The Moment is part of an ‘ultra-limited’ series of five unique annual releases by Ballantine’s. The series pays tribute to the skills and knowledge passed down through generations of Ballantine’s master blenders.
The first chapter, The Remembering, was released in April 2023, followed by The Waiting in December 2024. Each release is limited to 108 individually numbered bottles.
The third chapter, titled The Moment, is said to serve as a testament to the art of precision and timing in whisky craftsmanship.
It tells the story of how former master blender Jack Goudy taught the brand’s current master blender, Sandy Hyslop, the significance of identifying which casks and samples are ready for blending from among the hundreds available for tasting.
At the heart of the new blend stands Miltonduff Distillery: a cornerstone single malt in the Ballantine’s blend.
The expression is said to encapsulate Ballantine’s distinctive signature style, displaying a sweet, fruity aroma of caramelised red apples, oranges, cinnamon-spiced banana loaf, toasted coconut, and manuka honey. The palate follows with notes of freshly baked pear tart with morello cherries, orange zest, vanilla custard, soft fudge, and milk chocolate.
Bottled at cask strength, each release showcases a distinct profile in the Masterclass Collection.
Hyslop commented on the release of Chapter Three: “Crafting a whisky of this age is an exercise in patience, but The Moment speaks to something even more profound. The precise instance when a whisky reaches its absolute peak. It’s about recognising that perfect harmony amidst thousands of casks, a skill Jack Goudy taught me, and one that defines the very soul of Ballantine’s.
“This release is a tribute to that critical discernment, celebrating the Miltonduff character that shines through, and the enduring legacy of those who came before us.”
The 40-year-old whisky is presented in a hand-finished wood veneer cabinet. The sustainable oak surfaces, covered in finely woven fabric, are complemented by burnished and engraved metal hardware.
Additionally, each chapter features a folded paper panel created by Scottish artist Kyla McCallum.
Limited to 108 bottles worldwide, Ballantine’s 40 Year Old Masterclass Collection Chapter 3: The Moment is available at speciality retailers with a recommended retail price of US$13,000.
Earlier this year, Ballantine’s introduced two new bottles in its True Music Icons series, honouring English virtual band Gorillaz and American rock band Kiss.
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