Kicking off this nine-some of Whisky Exchange single casks with a 2011 Clynelish that has been fully matured in a single ex-bourbon barrel for a decade.
Nose: Travel sweets and pear drops sit alongside golden barley, crème brulee and Mr Sheen furniture polish. The background presents florally with nectarines and peaches joined by delicate blossoms and sweetened with iced buns. Reduction reveals milkshake powder and quince but results in a far narrower profile overall.
Taste: Bright, fruit-forward, oily in character and all rather potent. Pear slices, sunflower oil and a selection of greases join vanilla-imbued milk and creamed rice. Toffee cups and tinned fruit salad follow – all vibrant and expressive. Water brings out a highly juicy quality, emphasising light tropical notes of pineapple alongside tangerine.
Finish: Medium in length and interplaying fruits with a sprinkle of cask-led pepper.
TWE’s latest Clynelish offers a highly enjoyably ride through fruit-focussed distillate. There’s not been quite enough time for this one to develop the deep waxy character the distillery is famous for – but the animated fruitiness more than makes up for its absence here. It’s just a shame that the nose doesn’t want to be reduced down whereas the palate really does benefit from a drop or two of water. Nevertheless, good stuff and easy to see why this has already sold out.
Review sample provided by The Whisky Exchange