My first acquaintance with Balvenie was in the late 80s with The Balvenie Classic 18 Y. I still keep a little remainder, of which I take a nip every year. Although the alcohol content has fallen drastically, it remains a beautiful product. In 2012, this 17 year old DoubleWood was released at the 50th anniversary of Master Distiller David Stewart. He is undoubtedly the "inventor" of finishing and with this edition he approaches the Classic 18 Y with which he has indulged me for thirty years. Super!