In my first week of writing about whisky, I wanted to introduce you to a bottle you may have seen on the shelves of your local liquor store but perhaps overlooked. I hope that after reading this, you’ll be inspired to give it a try, and I believe you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the experience.
I’m referring to the exquisite Highland Single Malt Whisky known as Clynelish, specifically the 14-year-old expression. The other ages in their range are quite rare and hard to find. As a seasoned Scotch whisky enthusiast with over 20 years of experience in collecting, curating and educating, I’ve found Clynelish to be one of the hidden gems of Scotch. Clynelish is a distinguished Highland distillery owned by the renowned alcoholic beverage company Diageo. The distillery does not release a large number of official bottlings, as much of their production is used in blended whisky such as Johnnie Walker. When Diageo does release new Clynelish bottles apart from the 14-year-old, they are quickly snapped up by the distillery’s ardent fans, making this whisky relatively scarce.
John Glaser, the founder of the esteemed blended Scotch whisky company Compass Box, frequently incorporates Clynelish in many of his blends. While Clynelish enjoys a solid reputation, it often plays a supporting role rather than being the star of the show.
So, the next time you’re shopping for a single malt Scotch, make sure to pick up this fantastic bottle before its devoted followers get to it first!
Tasting Notes
Nose: Sweet aromas of honey, peaches, floral notes, and vanilla.
Palate: Medium-bodied, tending towards a creamy and waxy texture, with mouth-watering candied fruit flavors such as subtle hints of peaches, oranges and oak. It provides a good body on the palate without feeling too soft.
Finish: Retains some fruitiness, including green apple, lemon and pear, but also features more common notes such as vanilla and honey. The finish is relatively straightforward, with a pleasant oak taste.
Final Thoughts
An excellent whisky at an exceptional price. While it may not be the most complex whisky on the market, it excels in delivering a superb, creamy, fruity and sweet sipping experience. This delightful bottle has earned a permanent spot on my shelf.
| Distiller: | Clynelish |
| Type: | Single Malt Scotch |
| Region: | Highland |
| Age: | 14 years old |
| Cask Type: | American and European oak Barrels |
| Abv: | 46% |
| Volume: | 750 ml |
| Price: | $75 |
In Jewish culture, the enjoyment of Scotch whisky often aligns with the value of hachnasat orchim (hospitality). Sharing a fine whisky with guests can be seen as a way to honor them and enhance the joy of the occasion. Moreover, in the realm of Jewish mysticism, some Chasidic groups have been known to incorporate whisky into their celebrations, using it to elevate the spirit and foster a deeper sense of community and connection. So if you’re eager to share the Scotch experience with friends and community, I invite you to explore my website. Reach out to me for more details on hosting a memorable evening where we’ll dive into the intricate tastes of Scotch whisky together.
