Ballantynes finest continues to leave lasting impression with international whisky expert, Jim Murray

Ballantine’s, the world’s number two range of blended Scotch whiskies, has been
recognised by leading whisky connoisseur Jim Murray in the 8th edition of his Whisky Bible,
with Ballantine’s Finest winning the title of ‘Best Blended Scotch (Standard) of the Year’.

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 Finest with the prestigious ‘Best
Blended Scotch (Standard) of the Year’ award 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”.

Kerry Wheeler, Ballantine’s brand manager - New Zealand, comments: “For Ballantine’s
Finest to once again receive this award from one of the world’s most respected whisky
writers is a real honour. Not only is this a testament to the expertise of our Master
Blender, but it also further enhances the reputation of Ballantine’s Finest as a high-quality,
blended Scotch whisky.”

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.

Ballantine’s Finest Scotch Whisky (RRP $54.95), is available in New Zealand from all
leading liquor outlets.