Some time ago a reader pointed out that I hadn’t reviewed Clynelish 14 Year Old. To be honest I was a bit surprised myself: I definitely tried it a couple of times but somehow it never made it onto the blog.
So here you go, I bought a bottle with the sole purpose of giving this Highlands single malt the place it deserves. It should have been part of the Classic Malts of Scotland in my opinion.
Clynelish 14 yo (46%, OB +/- 2020)
Nose: apples and pears before the expected waxy notes appear. Some gravel and other mineral notes, gorse and a very mild mustardy edge that is not uncommon in the Highlands. Heathery notes, lemons, just enough vanilla, ginger and orange peel. Fresh, pretty complex and quite distinct.
Mouth: feels fuller than 46%, but slightly less complex than the nose. A nice waxy / creamy texture, mixed with nutty notes, briney touches and a sweet toffee edge. Orchard fruits and lemons. Orange peel. Light herbal honey, oak spice and leather. A hint of buttery cocoa as well.
Finish: reasonably long, on bittersweet oak spice, hints of resin and light pepper.
This is simply one of the best widely available core range whiskies. A timeless profile, good depth and complexity, and some unique touches. A benchmark everyday dram: in times when it’s easy to spend € 150 on a mediocre whisky, it’s great to come accross such value for money.
Available from Master of Malt or The Whisky Exchange (also as a 3cl sample), plus your local retailer of course.