Teaninich 45 Years Old 1975 Cask Series 014 (North Star)

A Teaninich single malt, released by North Star Spirits, a 45 year old release from 1975 and bottled at 49.4%. A release of 65 bottles. Teaninich was founded in 1817 by Captain Hugh Munro in Easter Ross, north of Inverness; it is a key malt of Johnnie Walker. There are no warehouses on site; the spirit is matured in Diageo's central stores.

The spirit was made from a mash filter wort for a clean, grassy spirit, for a clean, oily make of real freshness. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. Very old Teaninich turns profound, waxy and tropical yet still fresh. Sherry wood suits the light make, lending dried fruit and a nutty depth. A long fermentation of around 75 hours builds the fresh, fruity notes. Filled spirit is tankered away to mature in Diageo's central warehouses. The name comes from the Gaelic for house on the hill, a nod to the old estate. By the 1970s Teaninich was already one of the largest distilleries in Scotland.

At a hearty 49.4% it carries real weight. Vanilla and a light cream from the barrel, with citrus, cut grass and a waxy lift. A green fruit and a gentle oak give it depth. A clean, gently waxy finish lingers. This is the green, waxy malt of Alness.