Teaninich 12 Years Old 2008 Cask #715729 (van Wees)

van Wees selected this Teaninich, a 12 year old Highland malt from 2008, drawn from cask 715729 and bottled at 46%. 370 bottles in all. Opened in 1817 on the Teaninich estate north of Inverness at Alness, Teaninich is a big Highland workhorse. Its make is a key part of Johnnie Walker, Haig and VAT 69.

It was drawn off fat copper stills fed by a uniquely clear wort, for a fragrant spirit with a green tea lift. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. By this age the green spirit rounds into orchard fruit and a waxy depth. Long, gentle ageing turns the cut grass towards honey and soft fruit. Filled spirit is tankered away to mature in Diageo's central warehouses. The name comes from the Gaelic for house on the hill, a nod to the old estate. By the 1970s Teaninich was already one of the largest distilleries in Scotland. The River Averon runs beside the distillery on its way to the firth.

At an easy 46% it is gentle. 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. It finishes clean, fresh and grassy. This is a rare single malt from a blending giant.