The Balvenie Fifty Collection Release Two Unveils Rare 50-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch

Following its highly sought-after first release last year, The Balvenie has unveiled the second expression in its prestigious 'Fifty Collection' trilogy. This exceptionally rare 50-year-old Scotch whisky is globally limited to just 97 bottles.

This precious second edition of the Fifty Collection continues The Balvenie's celebration of fifty years of whisky-making artistry. Malt Master Kelsey McKechnie meticulously selected casks filled in 1973 for this vatting, combining a European oak refill butt used in the first release with an American oak hogshead. This distinctive blend showcases the Speyside distillery's commitment to honoring traditional craftsmanship while boldly pushing the boundaries of flavor.

According to official tasting notes, the whisky initially presents aromas of sticky toffee, violet, and rose florals. On the palate, rich notes of dried dates, sweet blackcurrant, and delicate citrus peel are evident, offering a complex layering complemented by creamy honey and a buttery finish. Bottled at 49.8% ABV, oak influence persists throughout the tasting experience, providing a long and warming embrace.

Kelsey McKechnie remarked, 'The Balvenie Fifty Collection is a tribute to the distillers, craftsmen, and guardians who have protected our precious liquid over the past five decades. The time spent maturing in American oak has created incredibly balanced characteristics, releasing sweet honey and warm oak notes.' The release also upholds the legacy of former Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE, whose pioneering cask finishing technique is now an industry standard. Notably, many of the craftsmen who personally filled these casks in 1973 still work at the distillery today.

Each of the 97 bottles contains whisky presented in a hand-blown glass vessel and is individually numbered. The packaging includes a presentation case meticulously crafted by Croglin, a bespoke workshop in Cumbria, UK. The case features a spiraling, seven-layered wooden structure with a deeper dark wood stain than the first release, accented by 14-carat gold-plated brass display elements, exuding supreme luxury.

2025-09-18

Source: https://thewhiskeywash.com/whiskey-news/the-balvenie-fifty-collection-second-release/