Balvenie The Creation Of A Classic From the Balvenie Stories range, this was put together by David Stewart MBE, who has just stepped down as malt master at the Speyside distillery. This expression is inspired by Stewart's pioneering work with cask finishing in the 1970s and 1980s. The Creation of a Classic is first matured in ex-bourbon casks then matured a while in oloroso sherry casks before bottling at 43% ABV. If you love the classic smooth fruity Balvenie profile then this is the whisky for you. Nose Sweet smelling with vanilla, ginger and caramel. Palate Gingerbread, oatmeal, toffee and stone fruit with spicy clove and cinnamon. Finish Spicy finish with a hint of wood tannin.