Clynelish 1989

13 Years Old Highland 56.7 % vol

1 of only 640 bottles from cask 3281

Clynelish Distillery stands on the edge of the fishing port of Brora, overlooking what used to be called the German Ocean. It’s malt has long been esteemed. This example is the colour of old gold, probably from a first-fill ex-Bourbon cask, and has one of the heaviest beads we have ever encountered – an indication of thick texture, and it does not disappoint. The nose presents slightly overdone baked apples (skins scorched; slightly caramelised), with some dried herbal notes – the latter becomes smouldering dried moss when water is added, and the apple-skin is restored and made slightly waxy. Wonderfully thick in the mouth and bitter-caramel-sweet – reminiscent of old Sauternes, but more acidic. A pudding whisky?

Silver Medal Winner, Malt Maniacs 2004.

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