Teaninich 10 Years Old 2015 (Hogshead Imports)

A Teaninich single malt, from the independent bottler Hogshead Imports, a 10 year old release from 2015 and bottled at 53.8%. 59 bottles in all. Teaninich was first built in 1817 in the northern Highlands at Alness, and it has long been prized by blenders. Single malt is rare; the Flora and Fauna 10 year old is the only regular official bottling.

The spirit was run from a clear wort through the distillery's tall stills, to build a clean, waxy, grassy character. Ex-Bourbon casks held the spirit, soft oak that lets the grass lead. At this age the spirit is fresh and green, cut grass and citrus to the fore. The ultra clear wort from the mash filter is the source of the green, grassy character. The Munro family ran the distillery through two generations before selling. The Cromarty Firth nearby is one of few UK waters home to bottlenose dolphins. A long fermentation of around 75 hours builds the fresh, fruity notes.

Undiluted at 53.8%, it is layered. Grass, pear and a gentle wax meet soft vanilla and honey from the cask. The mouthfeel is waxy, the citrus carried on a grassy body. Green tea and a soft wax see out the finish. This is Teaninich's clean, grassy Highland style.