Teaninich 34 Years Old 1983 Cask #6729 (BB&R)

From Berry Bros & Rudd comes this Teaninich, a 34 year old from 1983, drawn from cask 6729 and bottled at 46.2%. A release of 252 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. Maturation came in ex-Bourbon wood, with vanilla under the grassy spirit. At over forty years it is rich and waxy, tropical fruit, honey and old oak over a green thread. Years in oak round the spirit, the grass and wax deepening with age. Most casks are refill ex-Bourbon, which lets the grassy spirit show through. Captain Hugh Munro built the distillery to give his tenants' barley a buyer. Almost all of its make is destined for blends rather than single malt.

At a hearty 46.2% it carries real weight. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla, with cut grass, green tea and a soft citrus. The mouthfeel is waxy, the citrus carried on a grassy body. A long, oily finish carries a green lift. This is a rare single malt from a blending giant.