Deanston 20 Years Old 1997 Cask #1982 (The Single Cask Ltd.)

The bottler The Single Cask Ltd bottled this Deanston, a 20 year old, distilled in 1997, from cask 1982, bottled at 52.7%, one of 251 bottles. Deanston is a waxy, honeyed Highland malt made in a former mill on the banks of the Teith. Its wash is fermented long, for a fruity, estery character.

The spirit was distilled slowly for a clean, fruity spirit, giving the soft, malty Highland spirit. A refill bourbon hogshead held it, keeping the honeyed, waxy character to the fore. At oxidative maturity vanillin and lactones are fully expressed, the malt deepening over its waxy weight. Refill oak lets the waxy, honeyed Deanston character lead the way. It draws water from the River Teith, which also drives the turbine that powers the distillery. The long ferment and clear wort give a fruity spirit that ages with grace. Its flagship is the 12 year old, bottled unchillfiltered at 46.3%.

Bottled at a cask strength 52.7%, it is rich. Apple, pear and a soft honey, with a soft vanilla from the oak. It is fruity and waxy, the malty spirit shining through. The finish is long, waxy and gently spiced. This is Deanston's waxy, fruity Highland style.