Balblair Whisky. Gaining an appreciation for a liquid art form

I don’t mean to be DRAMatic, sipping on whisky wasn’t my thing – until I realised, it is actually quite the art form!

I am feeling very honoured. As a columnist for Premier Magazine I have the privilege of attending various events and experiencing some really unique opportunities. And recently, I had the pleasure of accepting an invitation by Balblair to visit their distillery in Inverness. This extraordinary experience allowed me to witness the meticulous Art of crafting Balblair whisky, discover the rich history behind it, indulge in the exquisite flavour of their 25-year-old expression. Did you know that Balblair is one of the oldest distilleries in the highlands?

The visit was a truly memorable exploration into the art of whisky making and appreciation. A heritage rooted deep in tradition …..

The Balblair 18 year old and 21 year old

The story of Balblair begins in the serene Scottish Highlands, where the distillery has stood since 1790. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, Balblair has become synonymous with the art of whisky making. With a heritage deeply rooted in tradition, they have been producing exceptional single malt Scotch whisky for over two centuries now.

Balblair is one of the oldest distilleries in the highlands

The distillery itself has a long and fascinating history, from humble beginnings on the estate of the Rosses of Balnagown, through to expansion – aided by the arrival of the railway in 1895, and sadly the temporary ending of production shortly before the First World War. The Norwegian Army descended on the closed site after it was commandeered by the Ministry of Defence for the duration of World War II and production finally resumed in 1948. After being bought by Hiram Walker (later to become Allied Distillers) in 1970 and further investment, Balblair is finally purchased once more in the 90s by Inver House and under the management of John Macdonald (formerly of Glenmorangie) the distillery makes the move to specifically release their drinks as ‘Vintage’. John retired earlier this year and his successor is David Rogerson who moved to Balblair from a post as Assistant Distillery Manager at Speyburn.

Mastering the Craft

At Balblair it was clear to me that whisky making is regarded as a true Art form. It is a meticulous process that requires dedication, patience, and an unwavering commitment to quality. From the selection of the finest ingredients to the precise timing of fermentation and distillation, every step is carefully orchestrated with the goal of creating single malts of real excellence.

Always with a focus on focus on quality rather than quantity, the distillery purposefully don’t seek to craft their whisky in large quantities. In fact, Balblair make a point of stressing how it’s purely the march of time that adds some of the magic. They emphasise that theirs is ‘a patient, hands-on approach. Not to be rushed’.

The collection starts with a 12-year old (in which you can taste ground spices and dried orange with accompanying sweet notes of honey), and goes up through age statements of 15, 17, 18, 21 right up to a glorious full bodied 25 year old.

The 25 year old has indulgent aromas of ripe apricot, liquorice, and toasted oak followed by praline and orange oil flavours gradually leading on to a warm, smooth finish with hints of dark chocolate, blood oranges and fresh tobacco

Priced usually upwards of £500 a bottle I felt very privileged indeed to sample the 25 as part of my most enjoyable indoctrination into the appreciation of vintage qualities of a Single Malt during my tour of this remarkable distillery.

Under expert guidance by the connoisseurs who have made a career of crafting this rare copper-coloured highland elixir I was able to appreciate how, much like a fine piece of art, you have to allow time for its qualities to come into focus. After breathing in its indulgent aromas of ripe apricot, liquorice, and toasted oak, I allowed it time on my tongue before those distinctive praline and orange oil flavours gradually emerged, finally leading on to a warm, smooth finish with hints of dark chocolate, blood oranges and even fresh tobacco. Perhaps an ideal accompaniment to a good Havana too?

Wow. Look at me – using the kind of gushing similes I would never have considered before for anything other than artworks hanging on a gallery wall – such has been my voyage of discovery!

My journey to the Balblair distillery in Inverness was indeed a remarkable experience that has without doubt deepened my appreciation for the fine art of whisky making. The dedication, passion, and expertise of the Balblair team were evident in every step of the process, resulting in a whisky that is truly exceptional. As I reflect upon these incredible few days, I am reminded of the magic that lies within a glass of Balblair, a testament to the timeless tradition and unwavering pursuit of perfection in the world of whisky.

The Balblair Distillery is located at Edderton, Tain, Ross-Shire IV19 1LB and they offer distillery tours. Tel: 01862 821273

www.Balblair.com

And for those who like their vintage whisky served with a splash of legendary links golf: Dornoch Station Hotel and Links House

Dornoch Station Hotel

Perhaps the biggest draw at this destination hotel is that it is just a few steps from the legendary Royal Dornoch Golf Club

During my stay in the highlands, I stayed at Dornoch Station Hotel and enjoyed the private dining experience at Links House. Dornoch Station is a Victorian-era Hotel hotel which manages to combine traditional elegance with modern comforts. It has newly renovated guest rooms, lobby spaces and dining that celebrate the region’s rich history. But perhaps the biggest draw at this destination hotel is that it is just a few steps from the legendary Royal Dornoch Golf Club. Regarded as one of Scotland’s finest championship courses, it is wild and isolated and dates back to 1877 (even though records show golf was played here as early as 1616). It was also a training ground for renowned golf architect Donald Ross.

Rooms at the hotel are spacious, well-appointed and feature stunning views of the Dornoch Firth or the surrounding countryside, while a cozy, inviting, bar provides guests with a great place unwind by the fireplace after a day of exploring the Highlands. Local attractions include the Dornoch Cathedral and of course the region’s beautiful unspoilt beaches.

Links House

Dining at Links House is described as the UK’s most northerly luxury location. It sets out to offer the very best of Scottish hospitality with a unique culinary experience incorporating menus that evolve with the seasons.

Inspired by its surroundings, the restaurant sources ingredients from local producers as well as its kitchen garden. Links House, once requisitioned as Officers’ Quarters during World War II, embraces its military history. The ‘Anteroom,’ private dining space was inspired by the ‘Officers Mess,’ with its panelled walls and tasteful décor. Here myself and other notables sampled a culinary experience where Chef Kevin Barber’s creativity was really able to shine through. Each dish here tells a story, connecting to Links House, Highland history, or the local community. The blend of historical charm, local flavours, and culinary artistry all helped to create a memorable and enriching experience which was truly the icing on the cake for my visit to the highlands.

Dornoch Station Hotel is on Grange Road, Dornoch IV25 3LF

Tel: 01862 730333