Turriff 2004 MBl (Meadowside Blending)

From Meadowside Blending, a 15 year old Deanston, distilled in 2004, from cask 8, bottled at 52.5%, one of 391 bottles. Deanston is a Highland single malt known for its waxy texture and unchillfiltered bottlings. The site was the Adelphi cotton mill, built in 1785 by Sir Richard Arkwright and turned to whisky in 1965.

Distilled from unpeated Scottish barley in bulbous copper stills, giving the soft, malty Highland spirit. A bourbon barrel held it, the wood adding a light vanilla and a soft honey. Through oxidative maturity esters concentrate, apple and pear turning honeyed over the waxy body. The light, fruity make takes cask flavour well while keeping its honey and wax. Deanston is the only distillery in Scotland to generate all its own power from the river. Maturing in the vaulted stone warehouse, the spirit develops slow and steady. The spirit is condensed in shell and tube condensers for a clean, fruity make.

At a hearty 52.5% it carries real weight. Green apple, honey and a waxy malt, with a soft vanilla from the oak. A baked apple and a gentle clove lift it. The finish is long, waxy and gently spiced. This is Deanston's waxy, fruity Highland style.