Clynelish 14 Year

The heart malt for JW Gold this highland is known for its waxy texture and feel. It does not disappoint. Poured neat the nose is fruity(lotsa pear)and malty with candle wax and toasted barrel. Palate is true to nose adding honey and some floral aspects to round out. Very enjoyable mouthfeel. Im sure Im subconsciously interjecting more waxy notes than are really there but hey it works for me. Finish is nice malty dry barrel and lingering fruit with a whisp of smoke. This is along the lines of Craigellachie13 with the fruity malt and meaty feel. Not quite the equal but close........90/100

A waxy, floral nose of red plums, tangerines, pears, malted barley and a glimmer of peat. The palate is rather balanced, a delicious dance of sweet, fruit, salt and spice, and a sherry-like note, orange peel, dried raisins and nuts. Somewhat dry, medium finish, walnuts, banana peel, just a good balance of oak, spice and a touch of brine.

Pronounced "Kline-leash", the distillery is owned by Diageo, best known for Johnnie Walker. Supposedly, this distillery is heavily leaned upon in Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve blend. This 14 year old expression was first released in 2002. One of the most unique things about Clynelish is the oily and waxy texture on the tongue. It was discovered that this texture came from the oils that collected in certain parts of the equipment during distillation (the feints receiver for those familiar with such things). Normally, those oils are removed when the equipment is thoroughly cleaned during the annual "silent season" of the distillery. At Clynelish, these oils and gunk are kept and added back into the equipment in favor of retain this specific texture and mouthfeel. On the nose you get pear, flower blossoms, and salted caramel. On the palate you get hit with the highly unique oily and waxy texture, black pepper spice, fruit blossoms, fresh uncut grass, and sea salt. It finishes pretty long with caramel sweetness, floral, and almost seaweed character. Excellent pour!

A waxy, floral nose of red plums, tangerines, pears, malted barley and a glimmer of peat. The palate is rather balanced, a delicious dance of sweet, fruit, salt and spice, and a sherry-like note, orange peel, dried raisins and nuts. Somewhat dry, medium finish, walnuts, banana peel, just a good balance of oak, spice and a touch of brine.