Teaninich 10 Years Old 2012 Cask #KI-0006 (Kirsch Import)

This Teaninich was picked by Kirsch Import matured to 10 year old from 2012, drawn from cask KI-0006 and bottled at 57.5%. Built in 1817 north of Inverness at Alness, Teaninich is a big Highland workhorse. The mash filter gives an ultra clear wort, the source of its fragrant, green tea grassiness.

It was drawn off fat copper stills fed by a uniquely clear wort, for a fragrant spirit with a green tea lift. Ex-Sherry wood added a dried fruit richness to the green make. At a youthful age the green tea and citrus run bright. Years in oak round the spirit, the grass and wax deepening with age. Teaninich Castle nearby, once the family seat, is now a hotel and restaurant. Robert Innes Cameron, an Elgin blender, became sole owner in 1904. The Munro family ran the distillery through two generations before selling. The Cromarty Firth nearby is one of few UK waters home to bottlenose dolphins.

At a hearty 57.5% it carries real weight. The Madeira lends raisin and a caramelised nuttiness, and a gentle vanilla from the wood runs under green apple, grass and a light honey. Beneath it run cut grass, citrus and a soft wax. A grassy, gently spiced finish lingers. This is a fresh, waxy Highland single malt.