Clynelish 14 Year Old Highland

Clynelish 14 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky: A Detailed Tasting Experience

Hailing from the far north of Scotland, the Clynelish 14 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky offers a captivating glimpse into the unique spirit produced by this coastal distillery. Matured for 14 years in a combination of sherry and bourbon casks, this whisky presents a delightful complexity that's sure to tantalise the taste buds of both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers.

Nose:

The first impression is one of inviting freshness. Light and fragrant, the Clynelish 14 opens with a whisper of sea salt and a touch of seaweed, hinting at its coastal origins. Hints of citrus peel, particularly lemon zest, mingle with floral notes of heather and a touch of honeyed sweetness. Beneath this initial layer lies a subtle suggestion of creamy vanilla, hinting at the influence of the bourbon cask maturation. As the dram sits in the glass, a gentle warmth emerges, revealing a touch of waxy character, reminiscent of beeswax polish.

Palate:

The initial sip delivers a burst of flavour that confirms the expectations set by the nose. A wave of creamy sweetness washes over the tongue, carrying notes of honey and vanilla alongside hints of dried fruit, like apricot and peach. The coastal influence persists, with a pleasant salinity that provides a delightful counterpoint to the sweetness. A touch of spice emerges on the mid-palate, with whispers of cinnamon and ginger adding a touch of complexity. The Clynelish 14 boasts a lovely texture, with a medium body that feels luxuriously smooth and oily on the tongue.

Finish:

The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. The honeyed sweetness fades gradually, giving way to the subtle salinity and a touch of drying oak tannin. Hints of citrus peel and spice linger on the tongue, creating a satisfying and well-rounded conclusion to the tasting experience.

Serving Suggestions:

To fully appreciate the intricacies of the Clynelish 14 Year Old, it's best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Served neat allows the full spectrum of flavours to come through, while a single ice cube can help to open up the dram and reveal some of the subtler notes.

For those who prefer their whisky with a touch of dilution, a small splash of cool, filtered water can be a good option. Adding a few drops of water will release the spirit's volatile compounds, potentially bringing out more of the floral and fruity notes.

Food Pairings:

The Clynelish 14's balance of sweetness, salinity, and spice makes it a versatile whisky that can be enjoyed alongside a variety of foods. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

• Seafood: The coastal character of the Clynelish 14 makes it a natural pairing for seafood dishes. Try it with oysters on the half shell, smoked salmon, or grilled white fish.
• Cheese: Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert complement the whisky's sweetness and richness.
• Fruit: A plate of fresh fruit, like pears, apples, or grapes, can help to accentuate the Clynelish 14's fruity notes.
• Desserts: For a decadent treat, pair the Clynelish 14 with a dessert that features honey, vanilla, or citrus flavours.

Overall:

The Clynelish 14 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a delightful dram that offers a complex and rewarding tasting experience. Its coastal character, balanced sweetness, and subtle spice make it a whisky that's sure to please a wide range of palates. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or just starting to explore the world of single malt Scotch, the Clynelish 14 is a worthy addition to your next dram.

Looking to Explore Clynelish 14?

Here at The General Wine, we stock a wide variety of single malt Scotch whiskies, including the Clynelish 14 Year Old. Visit our website or our store in Liphook to browse our selection and find the perfect dram for you.