Teaninich 12 Years Old 2011 (SMWS 59.74)

From Scotch Malt Whisky Society comes this Teaninich matured to 12 year old from 2011, drawn from cask 59.74 and bottled at 54.7%. The outturn was 279 bottles. Teaninich, a large Highland distillery beside the River Averon at Alness, was first built in 1817. Its make is a key part of Johnnie Walker, Haig and VAT 69.

Mashed through a mash filter for an ultra clear wort and distilled in fat copper stills, giving the fresh, green spirit at its heart. 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. Sherry wood suits the light make, lending dried fruit and a nutty depth. A long fermentation builds the fresh, green fruit the blenders prize. A 2013 expansion added a new six still house, more than doubling capacity. Most casks are refill ex-Bourbon, which lets the grassy spirit show through.

Bottled at a cask strength 54.7%, it is rich. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla, with citrus, cut grass and a waxy lift. Soft orchard fruit and grass sit behind the sweetness. It finishes clean, fresh and grassy. This is the green, waxy malt of Alness.