Clynelish

Founded in 1819, Clynelish Distillery is situated along the stormy coast of Sutherland County in the Highlands region of Scotland. The distillery was first established by the Marquis of Stafford who, after marrying into the Sutherland family, became the first Duke of Sutherland. For a number of years after the original distillery was constructed, the quality of Clynelish whisky was so prized that only friends of the Duke were able to purchase the whisky.Today nearly two centuries after its initial founding Clynelish Distillery continues to use many of the same ingredients, including Highlands-malted barley and water sourced from Clynemilton Burn, in crafting its single malt whisky as it did under the stewardship of the Duke of Sutherland. Once the malted barley and water arrive at the distillery, the grains are milled and mashed before being fermented in Clynelishs wooden washbacks. While wooden washbacks are more expensive and difficult to maintain as compared to stainless steel washbacks, they absorb a portion of the heat generated during the fermentation process and thus, create a lighter and more rich whisky. After fermentation, the wash is distilled twice: first through Clynelishs copper-pot wash still and then again through its spirit still.Following distillation, Clynelish 14 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is matured for 14 years in oak casks before being bottled at 92 proof. While the vast majority of whisky produced at Clynelish Distillery is used as the basis for Johnnie Walker (as well as a few other Diageo) blends, this distillery bottling allows the true depth and character of Clynelish to shine on its own.Clynelish 14 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky has an aroma of plums, grapes, plump barley and a hint of citrus. The aroma gives way to a rich, waxy body, with floral and peat notes layered underneath saltwater taffy, and leads to a subtle finish accented by figs, black pepper and caramel.While Clynelish remains one of the more obscure distilleries in Scotland, the quality of whisky it produces and its steadfast commitment to Scottish tradition are sure to put it on the map. Clynelish 14 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky earned a 94 point rating at the Ultimate Beverage Challenge. Pick up a bottle today!