Tamnavulin 12 Years Old 2010 Cask #C22060 (Claxton’s)

Single malt Tamnavulin, an independent Claxton's bottling, a 12 year old from 2010, drawn from cask C22060 and bottled at 54.8%. Only 63 bottles were released. Tamnavulin, first built in 1966 in the Livet glen of Speyside, is the mill on the hill. For decades its malt fed the Whyte and Mackay blends rather than single malt.

The spirit was run through purifier stills on soft Easterton Spring water, to build a clean, orchard fruit character. Ex-Sherry wood added a dried fruit depth to the make. Still young, the malt is light and fruity with a gentle lift. The light, fruity make takes a cask finish particularly well. Built in the 1960s boom, its industrial buildings sit amid picturesque country. A value priced single malt, it has found a wide audience since its 2016 relaunch. Tamnavulin stands on the site of a 16th century carding mill, its old water wheel preserved on the label.

Undiluted at 54.8%, it is layered. The Oloroso brings dried fruit, Christmas cake and a nutty depth, and green apple and a soft vanilla sit alongside soft vanilla and honey from the cask. It is fresh and clean, the fruity spirit shining through. A fruity, lightly spiced finish lingers. This is Tamnavulin's smooth, fruity Speyside style.