Discover the exquisite charm of **Clynelish 14 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky**, a hidden gem from Scotland's northern coast. Renowned for its signature waxy texture and intricate flavor profile, this 46% ABV single malt delivers a symphony of briny sea breeze, citrus zest, honeyed sweetness, and a whisper of peat smoke. The palate delightfully balances tropical fruits, vanilla, and gentle spices, offering a smooth yet complex experience. With an elegant finish featuring hints of brine and subtle oak, this whisky is a staple of the Diageo Classic Malts Selection and a favorite among aficionados. Perfect as an aperitif or paired with dishes like ramen or risotto, Clynelish 14 is a versatile and luxurious choice for those exploring the depths of Highland craftsmanship.
Process & Profile
Crafted in the Highland region at the distillery in Brora, Clynelish 14 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a beautiful testament to Scotland's coastal distillation heritage. Aged meticulously in specially selected oak casks for 14 years and bottled at a robust 46% ABV, this single malt combines a fresh, creamy texture with a maritime character. Clynelish mirrors an Island style, rich in waxy and briny notes, making it both distinctive and versatile. Its timeless profile and commitment to quality secure its place as a core offering in the world of Scotch whisky.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: A harmonious blend of zesty mandarin, tangerine, apples, and pears, with underlying candle wax and coastal sea air. Subtle hints of vanilla, heather, and a faint mustardy edge enhance complexity.
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Palate: Creamy and waxy with a delightful lightness. Notes of oranges, soft acidity, dry oak, and vanilla are accented by mixed orchard fruits, honey, toffee, and a touch of leather.
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Finish: Long and bittersweet, featuring peppery oak spice, maritime saltiness, and faint resinous undertones. A drying yet satisfying conclusion to a well-balanced flavor journey.
What Makes It Special
Clynelish 14 Year Old stands out due to its vibrant waxy texture—rare among Highland malts—and its distinctive coastal character, with notes of brine and seaweed reminiscent of days spent by the sea. Often likened to Islay's subtler cousins, it manages to keep a balance of freshness and complexity without overwhelming the palate. As a successor to the celebrated, now-closed Brora distillery, its legacy adds depth to its narrative. For whisky enthusiasts, this bottle offers exceptional value and a rich, creamy experience, rivaling much pricier counterparts.
How to Enjoy
Clynelish 14 Year Old is a versatile malt that can be enjoyed in several ways:
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Neat: To experience its full complexity, savor it neat to appreciate the waxy texture and rich flavor spectrum.
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With Water: Add a few drops of water to open up its fragrant floral and waxy notes, bringing out its citrus and creamy characteristics even further.
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Pairings: Pair with light seafood dishes, creamy cheeses, or salted caramel desserts to complement its maritime character and sweet undertones.
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Aperitif or Digestif: Its refreshing, briny profile makes it a standout choice as an aperitif, while its full-bodied finish works beautifully as a digestif.
For both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers, Clynelish 14 Year Old Highland Single Malt is a rewarding exploration into the rich, coastal Highlands of Scotland. Its waxy texture, elegant complexity, and maritime charm make it a benchmark everyday dram.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key flavor notes of Clynelish 14 Year?
Clynelish 14 Year features a distinctive flavor profile with notes of fresh citrus like mandarin and tangerine, accompanied by vanilla, beeswax, and a touch of brine. The palate offers creamy mouthfeel, hints of dry oak, and a subtle mix of fruits, spice, and leather. The finish is long with a balance of bitter sweetness and spicy oak.
What is the alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage of this whisky?
Clynelish 14 Year is bottled at 46% ABV, which contributes to its bold flavors and satisfying texture.
Where is Clynelish 14 Year produced, and what is its regional style?
Clynelish 14 Year is produced in the Highland region of Scotland, specifically near Brora on the northeastern coast. It embodies a maritime influence with its briny and slightly smoky characteristics, reflecting the diverse styles found within Highland whiskies.
What makes Clynelish 14 Year unique compared to other Highland whiskies?
Clynelish is renowned for its waxy texture, a signature trait not commonly found in other Highland malts. This unique mouthfeel, combined with its maritime saltiness and fruity complexity, sets it apart as a sophisticated single malt.
How should I serve and enjoy Clynelish 14 Year?
This whisky is versatile and can be enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open up its flavors. Its creamy texture and balanced profile make it an ideal aperitif, but it also pairs well with seafood or can be savored on its own.
Is Clynelish 14 Year part of a larger portfolio of whiskies?
Clynelish primarily produces this 14-year-old bottling, a Distiller's Edition, and a cask-strength option available at the distillery. Most of its production is used in blends like Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve, making the Clynelish 14 Year a prized single malt for enthusiasts.
What are some comparable whiskies to Clynelish 14 Year?
Clynelish 14 Year is often compared to Oban 14 Year for its maritime notes but offers a waxier texture and distinct fruity flavors. It is also a stylistic counterpart to other Highland malts, such as Glenmorangie or Dalwhinnie, but with a bolder character.
Why is Clynelish 14 Year considered a collector's choice?
As much of Clynelish's output goes into blends, its limited single malt bottlings are highly sought after by fans of the distillery. Its affordability and exceptional quality also make it a staple for collectors and casual drinkers alike.
