Teaninich 10 Years Old 2009 (SMWS 59.58)

Scotch Malt Whisky Society bottled this Teaninich single malt, a 10 year old release from 2009, drawn from cask 59.58 and bottled at 58.4%. Only 205 bottles were released. Established in 1817 north of Inverness at Alness, Teaninich is a big Highland workhorse. Teaninich is Diageo's third largest distillery, and almost all its make goes to blends.

It was drawn off fat copper stills fed by a uniquely clear wort, for a fragrant spirit with a green tea lift. Ex-Bourbon casks held the spirit, soft oak that lets the grass lead. At a youthful age the green tea and citrus run bright. Most Teaninich is filled into refill ex-Bourbon, letting the make show through. Captain Hugh Munro built the distillery to give his tenants' barley a buyer. Almost all of its make is destined for blends rather than single malt. A hammer mill and mash filter, installed in 2000, replaced the traditional mash tun. That ultra clear wort is the source of Teaninich's fragrant, green tea grassiness.

Undiluted at 58.4%, it is layered. A gentle vanilla from the wood, with cut grass, green tea and a soft citrus. Beneath it run cut grass, citrus and a soft wax. A grassy, gently spiced finish lingers. This is a rare single malt from a blending giant.