The Balvenie French Pineau Cask 18 Year Old Scotch Whisky
The Balvenie French Pineau Cask 18 Year Old Scotch Whisky is one of the distillery's most intriguing experiments: after 10 years in a combination of ex-bourbon and European oak casks, this single-cask whisky spent an additional 8 years maturing in casks that once held Pineau des Charentes — the sweet fortified wine of France's Cognac region — bottled at 47.9% ABV (95.8 proof) in a 750mL bottle. Warming spice, butterscotch and ripe berries, shaped by nearly two decades of oak. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 47.9% (95.8 proof)
- Size: 750mL, limited single-cask release
- Age: 18 years — 10 yrs ex-bourbon/European oak, 8 yrs Pineau des Charentes casks
- Origin: The Balvenie Distillery, Dufftown, Speyside, Scotland
- Series: Balvenie Stories — "A Collection of Curious Casks"
An Experiment Eighteen Years in the Making
The story starts with Malt Master David C. Stewart, who set aside casks from an early Pineau des Charentes trial when they didn't meet his standards. Years later, under Malt Master Kelsey McKechnie, those casks were rediscovered — eight years of Pineau maturation had transformed them. The result is a limited single-cask 18-year-old that layers creamy vanilla, honey and gentle oaky tannins over the distillery's signature honeyed character. Browse the Balvenie collection, explore more Scotch whisky, and compare single malts at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
Nose of warming amber tones — toasted oak and delicate spice — with smooth butterscotch and hints of ripe berries. The palate layers intriguing spice and rich sweetness: creamy vanilla, honey and gentle oaky tannins, with toffee, raisins and orchard fruits emerging. A long, elegant, fruity finish.
How to Enjoy
Neat, in a tulip glass, with time to open — this is a contemplative whisky that rewards slow sipping. A teaspoon of water will lift the berry and honey notes from the Pineau cask influence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What proof is Balvenie 18 French Pineau Cask?
47.9% ABV (95.8 proof).
What is a Pineau des Charentes cask?
A cask that previously held Pineau des Charentes, a sweet French fortified wine made by blending grape juice with Cognac eau-de-vie.
Is Balvenie French Pineau 18 a limited release?
Yes — a limited single-cask bottling in the Balvenie Stories "A Collection of Curious Casks" series.
Order The Balvenie French Pineau Cask 18 Year Old online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA — a curious cask, an eighteen-year story, a limited bottle.