Clynelish 14 Year

Well, starting the Memorial Day weekend and a well anticipated pour of this whisky that I have had for some time. It will open this long weekend (and very much thankful for those who have defended and protected our freedoms.) The nose starts off as distinct aromas, almost as if you can pick each out out of an imaginary box. Those aromas consist of honey, candle wax, nutmeg, cantaloupe, Frosted Flakes, toasted marshmallows. As it opens, the aromas begin to synergistically meld and the collective produces a savory sweetness. More fruity sweetness comes forward. Pears, bananas, and pineapples with a touch of vanilla, candy corns sugar and a dash of cinnamon. Quite enticing. The palate becomes soft and velvety within a waxy body. A primary sugary sweetness is encapsulated containing caramel, brown sugar and vanilla. There is a definite spiciness but not intense: White pepper and ground cinnamon. Orange marmalade flashes briefly in the mid-palate and an oakiness begins the transition to the finish. The palate is left with some oaky char, cinnamon with a small amount of orange zest with a woody dryness. This is all rather brief. This is a quality scotch with a fabulous opening. The breadth and gelling of aromas is quite pleasant setting high expectations. If the palate could match the strength of the nose, and the length of the finish was longer, this would be a powerhouse. But unfortunately it’s not as broad and leaves you wanting more from the flavors. This however is still a flavorful whisky. A staple for any collection. [$45][88/100][Tasted: 5/25/18]

250.00