Teaninich 8 Years Old 2013 Cask #7080158 (Ronin Whisky Co.)

This Teaninich was selected and bottled by Ronin Whisky Co, an 8 year old release from 2013, drawn from cask 7080158 and bottled at 59.8%. A release of 86 bottles. Built in 1817 north of Inverness at Alness, Teaninich is a big Highland workhorse. There are no warehouses on site; the spirit is matured in Diageo's central stores.

It was drawn off fat copper stills fed by a uniquely clear wort, for a fragrant spirit with a green tea lift. Ex-Sherry wood added a dried fruit richness to the green make. At this age the spirit is fresh and green, cut grass and citrus to the fore. Most Teaninich is filled into refill ex-Bourbon, letting the make show through. Filled spirit is tankered away to mature in Diageo's central warehouses. 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.

Undiluted at 59.8%, it is layered. The Amontillado adds a dry, nutty, almond edge, and a gentle vanilla from the wood runs under a clean, green fruitiness. A green tea and a lemon note lift it. It closes clean, grassy and waxy. This is a fresh, oily Highland single malt.