Balvenie Portwood – 21-Year

40% ABV – 80 Proof
Suggested Retail Price: $250+
Distiller Rating: 93
Whiskey Reviewer Rating: A

Mark Garbin’s Review: Balvenie’s core product range ends with the 21-year Portwood. It carries over the same iconic aroma adding port’s sugared tinge derived from barrels that stored the rich wine for over three decades.

The silky yet full sense in the mouth showcases the distiller’s art where no lone facet dominates and each attribute is in concord.

Relish this beauty neat before a meal or with a smooth Robusto as your reward for a week well worked.

The $250 retail price tag makes it expensive for those starting out, but the mature Enthusiast and Adventurer may find it for under $200 if they try.

Aromas & Flavor Appeals to:Optimal Client TypeGreat For:
Subtlety AficionadoApprenticeCocktails
Power Flavor AdmirerEnthusiastNeat Before Dinner
Balanced DevoteeAdventurerWith Food
Uni-Directional FanMountain ClimberDessert or Afterwards
Chameleon LoverHedonistWith a Cigar (Light)


Distiller.com: Dried red fruits, floral heather, nuts, and wood spices are some of what you’ll pick up on tasting. What really catches your eye, though (or rather, your mouth) is the sensuality of this whisky. Not just in a sweet, smoldering sensuality, but in the way the whisky feels in your mouth; and as it eases down your throat. Make sure to share with a loved (or liked) one. – Stephanie Moreno

The Whiskey Reviewer: The Balvenie Portwood is first and foremost a delicate, well-balanced spirit. Insofar as sipping whiskey goes, it’s not the sort of thing you sip and enjoy while your mind wanders on other matters. The Portwood is the sort of thing you sip, and then ponder on how it got such a profound texture. It practically whispers “study me” from the snifter.    

Mark Garbin: Mark Garbin is more than his career as a financial asset risk expert might suggest. He’s a five-star novelist, former radio DJ, past bartender and constant whisky connoisseur. He's always on the lookout for outstanding spirits and the most alluring bars. His current book, "Whisky and Romance Manhattan" is also 5-star Amazon rated. For decades he’s tasted thousands of whiskies, lived overseas and visited hundreds of places around the world. He’s a whisky omnivore from single malts, to ryes, bourbons, gins and tequilas and is now thrilled to share his experiences with you. For a free e-book of reviews, join his list at www.tinyurl.com/Drammers-Craigellachie or send an email for feedback (LOVE IT!) at whiskeyevents@outlook.com