CLYNELISH
CLYNELISH
REGION: Highland
STYLE: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
ABV: 45.8%
AGE: 12 Years
RRP: £59.95
Clynelish produces a ‘waxy’ new make spirit: Think snuffed candles or waxed jackets, a rare character in today’s malts.
The distillery lies near the village of Brora, and its name comes from the Gaelic ‘slope of the garden’
There are actually two distilleries at this site. One is constructed of stone and looks very traditional, and one is much more modern in style. For a time, they both even bore the same name: Clynelish A and Clynelish B. The newer distillery, built in 1967/8 became Clynelish, and the older distillery was renamed Brora. Brora was closed in March 1983, but reopened in 2021
Clear worts and long ferments start the process, while distillation involves maximising copper conversation. Unusually, but not uniquely, Clynelish’s spirit stills are larger than its wash stills.
The major part of Clynelish production is used for blends, mainly Johnnie Walker Gold Label.
This ceraceous 12-year-old has been matured in the finest hand-picked rejuvenated (Decharr/Recharr) hogshead.
We’re expecting just 384 bottles.
NOSE
An inviting and bright introduction where rich aromas of ripe fruit immediately fill the glass. This is primarily expressed as vibrant, ripe orange and tropical fruits, creating an aromatic profile that is both fresh and evocative.
TASTE
A gentle transition reveals more nuanced development of flavour as the liquid coats the tongue. Soft tropical mango is beautifully complemented by a creamy, indulgent sweetness reminiscent of vanilla ice cream. The finish is characterised by a distinctive waxy depth—a classic hallmark of this distillery—and the lingering, succulent sweetness of marmalade preserves.
ABOUT THE LABEL
The original label featured three cats: the Scottish Wildcat from the Flora and Fauna label, a darker Brora cat, a reference to the 'Can I has cheezburger' meme site, and a mediator cat keeping the two apart.
The new label reimagines our three-eyed Mutant Wildcat (from the 10th Birthday label) as a Kitty-Cat Clock with candles for hands and cheeseburgers for clock points, set to 18:19. The original founding date for the distillery now known as Brora…
