Teaninich 20 Years Old 1999 They Inspired I (Michiel Wigman)

An independent Teaninich, from the independent bottler Michiel Wigman, aged 20 year old from 1999 and bottled at 49.7%. A release of 238 bottles. Teaninich, established in 1817 near the Cromarty Firth at Alness, is a key malt of Johnnie Walker. In 1887 it became the first distillery north of Inverness with electricity and a telephone.

Distilled on Highland spring water through fat copper stills, building the light Highland style blenders prize. Maturation came in ex-Bourbon wood, with vanilla under the grassy spirit. Beyond twenty years the malt grows deep and waxy, honey, soft fruit and a polished oak over green tea. Refill oak lets the green, grassy distillery character lead. Captain Hugh Munro built the distillery to give his tenants' barley a buyer. Almost all of its make is destined for blends rather than single malt. A hammer mill and mash filter, installed in 2000, replaced the traditional mash tun.

At a full 49.7% it is intense yet fresh. Grass, pear and a gentle wax meet honeyed oak sweetness underneath. The mouthfeel is waxy, the citrus carried on a grassy body. A long, oily finish carries a green lift. This is Teaninich's clean, grassy Highland style.