Stop number 77 on the SDT is Clynelish. Basically the successor to the soon to be reopened Brora distillery, this Diageo owned Highland distillery has quietly made a name for itself with this 14 year old single malt. Bottled at 46% ABV, and even though it’s not stated on the bottle it is non chill filtered. It does appear that there is a generous amount of colorant added making it a honey color. While coming off as “not as strong as you’d expect from a 46% scotch”, the nose shows a fair bit of complexity. Oranges, tangerine marmalade, beeswax and some cinnamon. A sanded oak table with a candelabra slowly dripping wax down upon it. Floral with dry grasses and faintly herbal, oregano or sage. A sherry type nuttiness even though I believe it is all bourbon matured. Lots of vanilla comes through with some caramel and brown sugar. Creamy. A very light mint and a brief hit of cumin. Odd as it may sound, there is a fresh laundry detergent smell. It works though. A whiff of smoke even though it is unpeated. Not a powerhouse of a nose but quite enjoyable. The palate arrives silky smooth with a waxy/floral/fruity burst. Orange blossom, tangerine, creamy vanilla. A little pepper, maybe white pepper and a light oak. The palate is less complex than the nose and quickly transitions to the finish. A medium-light bodied mouthfeel. Oily, waxy and mouth coating. The finish is medium length. Waxy, slightly bitter. A little oak with some spices. I really enjoyed the overall waxy sensation throughout the whole experience. It’s a lighter, mostly easy drinking whisky but it really works well. The finish is a little off but doesn’t hurt it too much. I have to applaud Diageo on this one. Choosing not to chill filtered was a great move. I would love to see this at 48%. At $68 locally it’s a good price for its age. We’re the finish a little better it would be a solid 4. As is it’s a 3.75. Thanks to @Scott_E for the sample. Cheers