Teaninich 13 Years Old 2008 Cask #704328 (The Single Cask Ltd.)

The Single Cask Ltd selected this Teaninich, a 13 year old from 2008, drawn from cask 704328 and bottled at 53.8%. A release of 255 bottles. Founded in 1817 by Captain Hugh Munro north of Inverness at Alness, Teaninich is a big Highland workhorse. It stands near Dalmore and Glenmorangie in the Cromarty Firth country.

It was drawn off fat copper stills fed by a uniquely clear wort, for a fragrant spirit with a green tea lift. Ex-Bourbon casks held the spirit, soft oak that lets the grass lead. Mid age brings a deeper honey and a riper green fruit. Years in oak round the spirit, the grass and wax deepening with age. A hammer mill and mash filter, installed in 2000, replaced the traditional mash tun. 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 53.8% it carries real weight. A gentle vanilla from the wood runs under a clean, green fruitiness. A green tea and a lemon note lift it. Cut grass and citrus draw out the close. This is a fresh, oily Highland single malt.