Braeval 1994/2019 - Sansibar
Braeval - a distillery that is often overshadowed by its more famous Speyside neighbours, even among whisky connoisseurs. This is mainly due to the fact that official bottlings are virtually non-existent. Instead, most of the production ends up in blends. Fortunately, there are independent bottlers such as Sansibar that make it possible to enjoy such hidden treasures as single malts.
Tasting Notes
Nose
A gentle, inviting sweetness from the glass. Honey and vanilla dominate the first impression, accompanied by creamy caramel that suggests an almost buttery creaminess. But this whisky has more than just sweetness: a malty depth provides structure, while oak notes are subtle. After a few minutes in the glass, the flavour opens up further - and suddenly a light coconut note is added. Very exciting! An underlying floral freshness gives the whisky a fine elegance. No alcoholic burn, no intrusive notes - simply a wonderfully balanced nose.
Palate
The first impression on the palate confirms what the nose promised: creamy, round, sweet and at the same time full of character. The vanilla and honey are immediately present and envelop the palate with a silky texture. The malt then becomes more prominent, and with it a pleasant spiciness that testifies to the long maturation in oak barrels. However, the highlight is the subtle coconut note that slowly blends into the flavour - almost as if the whisky has been given a hint of tropical exoticism. The oak remains present, but never dominant. There is no excessive bitterness or dryness, but a perfect balance between sweetness, spice and wood.
Finish
The finish is exactly what you would expect from a 25-years Speyside malt: pleasantly long, warm and deep. A slight peppery note provides a spicy kick without being overpowering. The oak notes come to the fore, but they are mild and pleasant. At the very end, a fine blend of sweet and spicy flavours lingers on the tongue.
Thoughts
Marcel 87/100
This Braeval 1994/2019 is a true charmer from Speyside, delighting with its creamy texture and sweet coconut notes. It’s not about an exaggerated cask influence, but pure drinking pleasure that even brings a smile – perfect for connoisseurs seeking a classic malt with character.
Sascha 87/100
The Braeval 1994/2019 impresses with its balanced interplay of sweet vanilla and malty wood tones, subtly accented by a fine hint of coconut. Its complex structure and long, spicy finish make it a solid example of elegant Speyside whiskies without overwhelming cask dominance.
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71/100Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so few official releases of Braeval?
Braeval primarily produces whisky for blended expressions, which is why official single malt releases are rare. Most single cask bottlings come from independent bottlers like Sansibar.
What role does cask maturation play in this Braeval 1994/2019 from Sansibar?
The extended maturation in oak casks imparts the whisky’s characteristic spiciness and delicate oak notes, which harmonize beautifully with sweet aromas like vanilla and honey.
How does the Braeval 1994/2019 differ sensorially from other Speyside whiskies?
Alongside the typical Speyside sweetness and maltiness, this whisky reveals an unusual coconut note and a floral freshness, giving it a distinctive elegance and tropical nuances.