Discover Old Ballantruan: Speyside’s Bold Peated Single Malt
At Boisdale’s online shop, we are proud to present Old Ballantruan, a distinctive peated single malt from the heart of Speyside. Produced at the Tomintoul Distillery, Old Ballantruan stands out as one of the region's few heavily peated whiskies, offering a unique expression that combines Speyside's elegance with the intensity of peat.
A Bold Experiment in Speyside
Established in 1965, the Tomintoul Distillery was founded by Hay & Macleod and W&S Strong. In 2005, under the ownership of Angus Dundee Distillers, the distillery introduced Old Ballantruan as a bold experiment to create a heavily peated whisky in a region traditionally known for its unpeated malts. The name "Old Ballantruan" is derived from the Ballantruan spring, the pure water source nestled in the Cromdale Hills near Tomintoul, which imparts a unique character to the whisky.
The Distillery and Terroir
Located in the Glenlivet Estate, near the village of Tomintoul, the distillery benefits from the exceptionally pure waters of the Ballantruan spring. This natural resource is integral to the production of Old Ballantruan, contributing to its distinctive profile. The whisky is produced using heavily peated malted barley, a rarity for Speyside, and is bottled at a higher proof of 50% ABV, unchill-filtered, and without added colour, preserving its natural character and depth.
Signature Tasting Notes
Old Ballantruan is celebrated for its rich, smoky character with a balance of sweetness and complexity. Typical tasting profiles include:
- Nose: Heathery smoke balanced with subtle floral notes and a hint of vanilla.
- Palate: Gentle peat smoke accompanied by citrus tones, malt sweetness, and a touch of honey.
- Finish: Long-lasting with a warming smokiness and a slight peppery spice.
Food Pairings
Old Ballantruan's robust flavours pair excellently with a variety of dishes:
- Grilled meats and charred vegetables
- Smoked cheeses and blue cheese varieties
- Rich, dark chocolate desserts
- Spicy barbecue dishes
Shop Old Ballantruan at Boisdale Online
Experience the bold flavours of Old Ballantruan. Visit Boisdale’s online shop to explore our selection and enjoy a taste of Speyside's unique peated whisky.