Deanston 10 Years Old 2009 Cask #113 (Anam na h-Alba)

A 10 year old Deanston from the bottler Anam na h-Alba, distilled in 2009, from cask 113, bottled at 57.9%, one of 223 bottles. Deanston is a soft, malty Highland single malt from the old Adelphi cotton mill at Doune. It runs an open top mash tun, two wash and two spirit stills of a bulbous shape.

The spirit was mashed in the open top tun and fermented long for a fruity make, for a clean, fruity spirit with a waxy edge. A refill bourbon hogshead held it, keeping the honeyed, waxy character to the fore. Integration folds eugenol (clove) and vanillin (vanilla) into the malt, the body softer and waxier. Maturing in the vaulted stone warehouse, the spirit develops slow and steady. The light, fruity make takes cask flavour well while keeping its honey and wax. The cool, even temperature of the old weaving shed gives a slow, steady maturation. The distillery sits on the River Teith near Doune, between Stirling and the Highlands.

At its natural 57.9% it is concentrated. Apple, pear and a soft honey, with a soft vanilla from the oak. Pear, honey and a creamy malt fill the middle. The finish is rounded, honeyed and gently spiced. This is Deanston's waxy, fruity Highland style.