Balmenach 14 Year Old Sestante Full Proof 57.5%

Full-bodied and powerful, with a persuasive aroma. Balmenach BALMENACH 14yo SESTANTE 57.5% The aroma is strong and heavy, with a pleasant old-world feel and rich sherry notes. It evokes caramelized grape skins, prunes, black beans cooked in brown sugar, over-brewed tea, charred barley, spices like clove, leather, earthiness, and richness. Upon drinking, it starts with a smooth mouthfeel that expands powerfully and aromatically. Similar to the aroma, it has concentrated fruity sweetness and tannic astringency, with a rich, full-bodied malt character, leather, wet earthy old peat, and deep umami flavors. [Very Good] This Sestante Balmenach 14 Year Old, which apparently circulated in the 70s-80s, is a rare full proof at 57.5% for its time. Despite having drunk from this bottle multiple times, this occasion was still a powerful experience. Rather than juicy, it strongly asserts the weight of sherry-influenced fruits that feel like they've been boiled down, while the full-bodied malt character also confidently holds its ground. It's like the intensity of two sumo wrestlers in a fierce grip—a powerful malt. Perhaps due to its strong character, the old-world feel is well-balanced, adding depth without interfering with the aroma. With aging, there's a sense of unity between the original spirit and sherry notes, increasing complexity. It was an intensely strong and rich malt that left a lasting impression. Though it's an old sherry cask, in my view, it belongs to a different category from the so-called noble sherries often found in brands like Grant's or Macallan. Rather than being intoxicated by refined aromas, it's about enjoying the depth of flavor that comes with a rustic and unrefined quality. Such characteristics are occasionally found in old sherry casks from Sestante. Upon carefully tasting this one, I felt it has elements that could potentially be found in some current sherry casks, which made me happy.