Teaninich 12 Years Old 2010 Cask #707333 (The Vintage Malt Whisky Co Ltd.)

This Teaninich was released by The Vintage Malt Whisky Co Ltd, aged 12 year old from 2010, drawn from cask 707333 and bottled at 52.5%. 300 bottles in all. Founded in 1817 by a Napoleonic veteran north of Inverness at Alness, Teaninich is a big Highland workhorse. The mash filter gives an ultra clear wort, the source of its fragrant, green tea grassiness.

It was drawn off fat copper stills fed by a uniquely clear wort, for a fragrant spirit with a green tea lift. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the green character to the fore. Past a decade the grass deepens, the wax and a soft honey building over green fruit. A patient maturation suits the light, grassy Teaninich character. Teaninich Castle nearby, once the family seat, is now a hotel and restaurant. Robert Innes Cameron, an Elgin blender, became sole owner in 1904. The Munro family ran the distillery through two generations before selling.

Bottled at a cask strength 52.5%, it is rich. A gentle vanilla from the wood, with citrus, cut grass and a waxy lift. Soft orchard fruit and grass sit behind the sweetness. The close is fresh, grass over gentle oak. This is the green, waxy malt of Alness.