Curated by David Stewart MBE, who recently retired as malt master at the Speyside distillery, this expression from the Balvenie Stories range is inspired by Stewart's pioneering work with cask finishing in the 1970s and 1980s. The Creation of a Classic is initially matured in ex-bourbon casks, followed by a period of maturation in oloroso sherry casks, and is bottled at 43% ABV. If you appreciate the quintessentially smooth and fruity Balvenie profile, this whisky will certainly appeal to you. On the nose, it reveals sweet aromas of vanilla, ginger, and caramel. The palate offers flavours of gingerbread, oatmeal, toffee, and stone fruit, accented by spicy clove and cinnamon. The finish is spicy, with a subtle hint of wood tannin.