Kingsbarns Balcomie
Scotland and golf – a classic combination. The Kingsbarns Balcomie is named after a golf course in Fife and comes from the Lowland distillery of the same name. The Wemyss family, already known as an independent bottler, has been operating Kingsbarns since 2014. For this whisky, Isabella Wemyss relies on maturation in Oloroso sherry casks made of American white oak. The result? A smooth, sweet dram that carries the signature of this young distillery.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Right from the first sniff, Balcomie reveals its fresh character. Vanilla rises to the nose, followed by crisp apples and pears. A hint of Federweißer adds a certain liveliness. Subtle notes of milk chocolate and a grainy base aroma reminiscent of freshly malted barley round out the profile.
Palate
On the palate, the whisky is malty and fruity-fresh. Notes of fruit bread and coconut lend it a sweet, slightly exotic component. The spice remains pleasantly restrained: white pepper, gentle oak spice, and a hint of cinnamon provide balance. Despite its youth, the Balcomie remains smooth and well-rounded.
Finish
The finish is spicy and warming. Clove and hazelnut leave a pleasant impression. A slight youthful character shines through, but the overall picture remains harmonious.
Thoughts
Marcel 79/100
The Kingsbarns Balcomie is a pleasant companion for cozy evenings, offering plenty of drinking pleasure with its sweet vanilla and fruity notes. While it remains unpretentious and doesn’t revolutionize the whisky world, it convinces with its soft, approachable character – perfect for anyone seeking uncomplicated Lowland enjoyment.
Sascha 78/100
The balance and structure of the Kingsbarns Balcomie are well executed, with a harmonious blend of sweet sherry aromas and delicate spice. Despite its youthful nature, the whisky feels rounded and balanced without making any bold statements – a solid Lowlander that stands out especially for its elegant fruitiness.
Value for Money: Good
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83/100Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Kingsbarns Balcomie matured in Oloroso sherry casks made from American white oak?
Maturation in Oloroso sherry casks made from American white oak gives the Balcomie its characteristic sweet note and depth. The sherry casks contribute fruity and nutty aromas, while the American white oak adds vanilla and smoothness.
How does the location of the Kingsbarns distillery in the Lowland region influence the whisky’s flavor?
The Lowland region is known for lighter, fresh, and often floral whiskies. Kingsbarns Balcomie displays these typical traits with its fruity freshness, maltiness, and gentle spice that are characteristic of Lowland whiskies.
What does it mean that Kingsbarns Balcomie has no age statement?
A whisky without an age statement means that no minimum age is indicated on the bottle. Kingsbarns Balcomie is usually composed of younger whiskies, which is reflected in its fresh and lively character, without compromising on quality or complexity.