The North Highlands is home to a host of remarkable distilleries such as Glenmorangie, Clynelish and The Dalmore.
A distillery that many have not heard of is Teaninich which is from the Highland town of Alness.
The Teaninich distillery character is typically grassy and exotic and delivers an abundance of elegant flavours with a plump and oily mouth-feel.
A maturation in American oak suits it very well, and it’s the refill casks that in particular embrace the elegant nature of Teaninich.
The Fairies in the story of Clanyard Bay are well suited to this more delicate, and subtle single malt whisky.
In 1887 it became the first distillery north of Inverness to have electricity and a telephone.
Teaninich remained in Munro family hands up until 1904, when Robert Innes Cameron, formerly a major shareholder, became the sole owner.
In 1970 the distillery was greatly expanded, and an entire new building with six new stills was taken in operation. The four older stills remained in operation alongside the new stills.
Nose
A fragrant nose, with citrus fruit orange oils and cut grass. Freshly cut hay, chamomile and tangy apple promise a light and fascinating single malt. Soft bitter notes drift into roasted coffee beans and soft malt.
Palate
Toasted hazelnuts develop into warm baked apple pie. Baking spices linger and finish with a soft peppery prickle. With water added becomes dry with a whisper of smoke, and beeswax note mid-palate.
Finish
Long-medium finish and quite dry. Bitter orange marmalade and freshly baked biscuits bring a close to the fascinating whisky.
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