Teaninich 16 Years Old 1981 Cask #89/587/99 (First Cask)

This Teaninich was chosen and bottled by First Cask matured to 16 year old from 1981, drawn from cask 89/587/99 and bottled at 46%. Set at Alness in Easter Ross, Teaninich has distilled since 1817. Fat copper stills add an oily texture to the clean, grassy spirit.

It was worked through the distillery's stills from a very clear wort, for the light, grassy, oily make Teaninich is known for. Ex-Bourbon casks held the spirit, soft oak that lets the grass lead. Around the mid teens the malt gains a fuller, oilier body over the grass. The slow loss of the angel's share concentrates the grassy, waxy core over time. Almost all of its make is destined for blends rather than single malt. 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.

At an easy 46% it is gentle. Green tea, lemon and a soft spice sit alongside a quiet vanilla from the refill oak. A green fruit and a gentle oak give it depth. The finish is waxy, green and lively. This is a Johnnie Walker workhorse from the Highlands.