Twenty-one years in traditional oak, then a finishing rest in pipes that once held fine port that is the whole argument of The Balvenie PortWood 21 Year, a Speyside single malt Scotch. The port pipes leave their mark as perfumed ripe raisin over a nutty dryness on the nose, then a creamy, silky palate of fruit, honey and quiet spice that closes long, gentle and nutty. Bottled at 43% (86 proof), it stays composed rather than loud, aged whisky with nothing to prove. PortWood 21 has become a fixture of gift lists and anniversary pours. Serve it neat or with a few drops of water, which opens the port fruit further no ice, no cocktails.