Whisky Review/Tasting: Clynelish 1997 Signatory

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Northern Highlands, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Distilled on October 29th, 1997, and bottled on January 16th, 2014, making it a 16-year-old whisky. It is a mixture of two casks (hogsheads) from Clynelish Distillery, making it a B-Cask whisky rather than a single cask whisky. The whisky is un-chill filtered and uncolored.
Age Statement: 16 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The specific color of the whisky was not described, but the packaging options include a two-colored tube (copper and sand color) and a decanter with glassware. Both have an ABV of 43%, while the reviewed bottle has an ABV of 46%.

Balance of Flavors: This Clynelish whisky offers a balance between the smoothness of Speyside whiskies and the intensity of Islay whiskies, with a unique addition of faint smokiness and coastal flavors.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its aromatic smokiness, fruity vanilla notes from the casks transitioning into citrus fruits, and a distinct taste of the seashore, possibly including durhain or algae. It is described as mouth-filling, intense, and mouth-watering, with spiciness from the old cask but no bitterness.
Comparison: It is more intense and complex than most Speyside whiskies but not as intense as Islay whiskies. It occupies a middle ground, making it a coastal whisky with a complex profile.

Anecdotes: The independent bottler, Signatory Vintage, likely purchased a sequence of casks from Clynelish, indicating a significant investment in the maturation of these whiskies. The specific bottle reviewed is one of 739, highlighting the limited nature of this release.

Clynelish Distillery: Known primarily for producing whisky for the blended whisky industry, Clynelish has a less mainstream appeal compared to other distilleries. Its location in the Northern Highlands contributes to its unique flavor profile, with citrus fruity notes typical of the region but distinguished by its faint smokiness.

Horst Luening's Opinion: He appreciates the complexity and intensity of the Clynelish 1997 Signatory, noting its position between Speyside smoothness and Islay intensity. He finds it to be a rewarding whisky for those seeking more power and complexity from a Highland whisky.

Clynelish 1997 Signatory is a 16-year-old single malt Scotch whisky from the Northern Highlands, un-chill filtered and uncolored.
It offers a balance of smooth and intense flavors, with unique notes of smokiness, citrus fruits, and a coastal influence.
The whisky is part of a limited release of 739 bottles, emphasizing its exclusivity.
Clynelish Distillery's role in the blended whisky industry and its geographical location contribute to the whisky's distinct profile.
Horst Luening praises the whisky for its complexity and intensity, recommending it for those who seek a middle ground between Speyside and Islay whiskies.

For Speyside Enthusiasts: This Clynelish may be too intense and complex, especially with its unique coastal and smoky notes.
For Islay Aficionados: Those accustomed to the intensity of Islay whiskies might find this Clynelish to offer an intriguing, albeit less intense, alternative with its unique blend of flavors.
For Whisky Adventurers: Ideal for whisky drinkers looking to explore the nuanced middle ground between the smoothness of Speyside and the intensity of Islay, especially those interested in coastal influences and complexity.
For Collectors: The limited nature of this release, along with its unique characteristics and packaging options, makes it an attractive addition to any collection.