Scotch

Whisky Review: Balvenie-Glenlivet “As We Get It” 1970s

Maybe it is just that Macfarlane, Bruce & Co. jumped the gun slightly. 

OVERALL RATING

3
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Tasting Notes

About:

This Balvenie-Glenlivet “As We Get It” was bottled in the 1970s, going by the 26 2/3 fluid ounces volume of the bottle. The bottler was Macfarlane, Bruce & Co, Inverness. Cask-strength whisky, or whisky “as we get it” was not very common the 1970s, as consumers were more inclined towards drinking blends. As such, this is a very early example of cask strength Balvenie. Bottled at 108.6 proof, it is certain to have a bit of bite to it.
Appearance:
White Wine
Nose:
Wow, this has a kick on the nose! Almost like smelling salts. I don’t get a lot of whisky notes coming through, which isn’t totally surprising considering the pale color. A very small touch of vanilla and honey to be generous.
Palate:
Okay, deep breath. That is challenging. I love high ABV whisky as sometimes you will notice that a high strength bolsters the flavors. Not in this case. In fact, I think that the ABV is hindering the flavor here.
Finish:
Pure alcohol.
Comments:
Not one to sip and enjoy from a personal point of view. The high ABV combined with the apparent lack of age means that there isn’t a lot of cask influence to wade through.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Vin PF

Vin PF is a UK-based whisky reviewer, recognized as the face of the "No Nonsense Whisky" YouTube channel. He specializes in creating concise and accessible whisky review videos and livestreams, offering honest and straightforward opinions that cut through the noise. Vin's reviews prioritize efficiency, delivering clear and to-the-point insights without any unnecessary fluff. He takes pride in maintaining an approachable and relaxed demeanor, free from any pretension.

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