Teaninich 11 Years Old 2010 (Phil & Simon Thompson)

This is a Teaninich single malt, released by Phil & Simon Thompson, an 11 year old Highland malt from 2010 and bottled at 53.9%. The outturn was 298 bottles. Teaninich, a large Highland distillery beside the River Averon at Alness, was founded in 1817 by Captain Hugh Munro. It stands near Dalmore and Glenmorangie in the Cromarty Firth country.

Mashed through a mash filter for an ultra clear wort and distilled in fat copper stills, giving the fresh, green spirit at its heart. An ex-Bourbon barrel shaped it, gentle American oak beneath the green fruit. At a youthful age the green tea and citrus run bright. A patient maturation suits the light, grassy Teaninich character. That ultra clear wort is the source of Teaninich's fragrant, green tea grassiness. Teaninich Castle nearby, once the family seat, is now a hotel and restaurant. Robert Innes Cameron, an Elgin blender, became sole owner in 1904.

At a hearty 53.9% it carries real weight. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla, with citrus, cut grass and a waxy lift. Soft orchard fruit and grass sit behind the sweetness. Cut grass and citrus draw out the close. This is the green, waxy malt of Alness.