Balvenie Doublewood 12 Year Old Whisky

The Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old is a classic Speyside single malt, matured in American oak and finished in European sherry casks. This pioneering “wood finish” technique, created by Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE, brings harmony of honey, spice, and fruit, making it an iconic dram of craftsmanship, heritage, and gifting appeal.

Tasting Notes & Experience

Warm layers of vanilla, honey and gentle spice unfold from bourbon cask maturation, followed by rich dried fruits, nutmeg, and cinnamon from the sherry oak. Balanced, smooth, and subtly nutty, the finish lingers with oak, malt sweetness, and a whisper of peat for depth.

Key Details

• Distillery: The Balvenie (William Grant & Sons)
• Region: Speyside, Scotland
• Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
• ABV: 40%
• Volume: 700ml
• Maturation: American oak ex-bourbon casks & European oak sherry casks
• Serve: Neat, with a splash of water, or in classic cocktails

Cocktail Pairings

Boulevardier (a Scotch twist on the Negroni with honeyed depth); Rob Roy (Scotch Manhattan showcasing spice and fruit); Penicillin (ginger, honey and citrus balanced by subtle smoke); Balvenie Stone Fruit Splash (bright, summery, highlighting orchard fruit notes).

Craftsmanship & Story

Founded in 1892, Balvenie remains one of the few distilleries with traditional floor maltings, its own cooperage, and an in-house coppersmith. The DoubleWood 12, launched in 1993, showcases David Stewart’s pioneering two-cask maturation—first in bourbon, then sherry oak—creating layers of complexity while reflecting Speyside’s rich whisky heritage.

Special Features

A benchmark of cask finishing, DoubleWood 12YO exemplifies the balance between American oak sweetness and European oak richness. Its unique dual maturation process set the standard for modern single malts, offering a versatile whisky equally suited to sipping neat or as the base of elegant cocktails.

Recognition & Accolades

Internationally acclaimed for innovation and balance, DoubleWood 12 has earned numerous top awards:

• Double Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2022 & 2021
• Gold Outstanding – IWSC, 2021 (96 points)
• Master – The Scotch Whisky Masters, 2020
• Gold – International Spirits Challenge, 2023 & 2014
• Best Speyside Single Malt 12 & Under – World Whiskies Awards, 2019
• Silver Outstanding – IWSC, 2017

Celebrated for its pioneering cask finishing, DoubleWood 12 continues to be recognised as one of Speyside’s most iconic single malts.

Perfect for Gifting or Sipping

An iconic Speyside whisky that bridges tradition and innovation, making it a thoughtful gift for whisky lovers or a refined addition to any collection.

Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery

Order online for fast NZ delivery. Lovingly packed with premium packaging options and a personal message to complete the perfect gift.