Ballantine’s, the world’s no 2 range of blended Scotch whiskies, has been recognised by leading whisky connoisseur Jim Murray in the 8th edition of his Whisky Bible, winning five top awards including the highest accolade, ‘Whisky of the Year 2011’ for Ballantine’s 17 Year Old.
After tasting more than 1,000 new whiskies from around the world to complete the 2011 edition of the Whisky Bible, Murray awarded Ballantine’s 17 Year Old with ‘Scotch Whisky of the Year’, ‘Scotch Blend of the Year’ and ‘Best Blended Scotch (13-18 Years Old) of the Year’. The ultra premium blend also received the ultimate tribute, ‘Whisky of the Year 2011’ after achieving a huge 97.5 of a possible 100 points. The world-renowned whisky expert spoke highly of Ballantine’s 17 Year Old, saying it is “truly the epitome of great Scotch… for the last year, I have simply been unable to find a better whisky anywhere in the world.”
Ballantine’s Finest, the leading Scotch whisky brand in Europe with the no 1 position in 12 countries, was also recognised within the new Whisky Bible, winning ‘Best Blended Scotch (Standard) of the Year’ for the third consecutive year. Having awarded the blend an impressive 96 points, Murray describes Ballantine’s Finest “as a major work of art”. He also pays tribute to Ballantine’s Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop, commenting, “take a mouthful of this and experience the work of a blender very much at the top of his game.”
Peter Moore, Global Brand Director, Ballantine’s, comments: “To receive these top awards from one of the world’s most respected whisky writers is an honour. Not only is this a testament to the expertise of our Master Blender, but it also further enhances the reputation of the Ballantine’s portfolio as an unrivalled range of high-quality blended Scotch whiskies.”
Author of many highly acclaimed books on whisky, Murray has immense experience of whisky and is widely regarded as the world’s leading authority on the subject. His unwavering dedication to the spirit is aptly demonstrated in his Whisky Bible each year, with his vast knowledge and witty writing style ensuring sales in excess of 145,000 copies worldwide. His latest issue features tasting notes on more than 4,500 of the world’s whiskies, from leading to lesser known brands.
Ballantine’s is imported, marketed and distributed by Farsons Beverage Imports Company Limited, a member of The Farsons Group.