Teaninich 13 Years Old 2009 Cask #11089 (BB&R)

This Teaninich was drawn and bottled by Berry Bros & Rudd matured to 13 year old from 2009, drawn from cask 11089 and bottled at 55.5%. 163 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. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. Mid age brings a deeper honey and a riper green fruit. Most Teaninich is filled into refill ex-Bourbon, letting the make show through. 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 55.5%, undiluted, it is deep and grassy. A gentle vanilla from the wood, with cut grass, green tea and a soft citrus. The mouthfeel is waxy, the citrus carried on a grassy body. Green tea and a soft wax see out the finish. This is a rare single malt from a blending giant.