Tamnavulin 21 Years Old 1989 Cask #1750 (A.D. Rattray)

A Tamnavulin single malt, selected and bottled by A.D. Rattray, a 21 year old release from 1989, drawn from cask 1750 and bottled at 57.4%. Only 204 bottles were released. Established in 1966 on the banks of the River Livet, Tamnavulin is a light Speyside malt. The modern range is known for its cask finishes, the motto single malt, double flavour.

It was drawn off stills whose purifiers lift only the lightest vapours, for a delicate, floral spirit. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the light character to the fore. Past twenty years the spirit turns honeyed and full while keeping its finesse. Cask finishing is central to the modern Tamnavulin style, layering extra fruit. Water is drawn from the Easterton Spring, filtered through limestone. The distillery is now owned by the Philippine Emperador group through Whyte and Mackay. Its modern range leans on cask finishes, the motto single malt, double flavour.

At a hearty 57.4% it carries real weight. A gentle vanilla from the wood runs under honey, apple and a gentle spice. It is light and fruity, the fruit and oak well matched. The finish runs light, fresh and gentle. This is a fruity Speyside single malt of real charm.