Teaninich 14 Years Old 2008 Cask #718825 (Signatory)

This is a Teaninich single malt, selected and bottled by Signatory Vintage, a 14 year old from 2008, drawn from cask 718825 and bottled at 46%. Teaninich, a large Highland distillery beside the River Averon at Alness, was opened in 1817 on the Teaninich estate. Its make is a key part of Johnnie Walker, Haig and VAT 69.

Mashed through a mash filter for an ultra clear wort and distilled in fat copper stills, giving the fresh, green spirit at its heart. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. By this age the green spirit rounds into orchard fruit and a waxy depth. The cool Highland climate gives a slow, even maturation over the years. A long fermentation builds the fresh, green fruit the blenders prize. A 2013 expansion added a new six still house, more than doubling capacity. Most casks are refill ex-Bourbon, which lets the grassy spirit show through. Captain Hugh Munro built the distillery to give his tenants' barley a buyer.

At an easy 46% it is gentle. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla runs under a clean, green fruitiness. A green tea and a lemon note lift it. It finishes clean, fresh and grassy. This is a fresh, oily Highland single malt.