Teaninich 12 Years Old 2009 (BB&R)

A Teaninich single malt, from the independent bottler Berry Bros & Rudd, a 12 year old Highland malt from 2009 and bottled at 46%. A release of 1134 bottles. Teaninich was first built in 1817 in the northern Highlands at Alness, and it has long been prized by blenders. It is the only Scotch malt distillery to mash through a mash filter rather than a mash tun.

The spirit was run from a clear wort through the distillery's tall stills, to build a clean, waxy, grassy character. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the green character to the fore. Around the mid teens the malt gains a fuller, oilier body over the grass. The penetrating, fresh acidity of the spirit keeps it lively with age. 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. Filled spirit is tankered away to mature in Diageo's central warehouses.

At an approachable 46% it is light and balanced. Grass, pear and a gentle wax meet soft vanilla and honey from the cask. Soft orchard fruit and grass sit behind the sweetness. A grassy, gently spiced finish lingers. This is Teaninich's clean, grassy Highland style.