Teaninich 12 Years Old 2008 Cask #704330 (Signatory)

Signatory Vintage bottled this Teaninich single malt, a 12 year old release from 2008, drawn from cask 704330 and bottled at 55.9%. Just 310 bottles were filled. Set at Alness in Easter Ross, Teaninich has distilled since 1817. Single malt is rare; the Flora and Fauna 10 year old is the only regular official bottling.

It was worked through the distillery's stills from a very clear wort, for the light, grassy, oily make Teaninich is known for. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the green character to the fore. Past a decade the grass deepens, the wax and a soft honey building over green fruit. The ultra clear wort from the mash filter is the source of the green, grassy character. 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. The River Averon runs beside the distillery on its way to the firth.

At a natural 55.9% it is full and oily. Green tea, lemon and a soft spice sit alongside a quiet vanilla from the refill oak. The mouthfeel is waxy, the citrus carried on a grassy body. A long, oily finish carries a green lift. This is a Johnnie Walker workhorse from the Highlands.