Whisky Review/Tasting: Teaninich 17 Years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Coastal Highland region, north of Inverness, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured in refill American oak hogsheads and American standard barrels filled in 1999.
Age Statement: 17 years old, vintage 1999, bottled in 2017.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the mention of American oak suggests a light to medium amber color.
Bottle Design: Specific design details not provided, but it's noted as a special release and the first of its kind, making it a collector's item.

Balance of Flavors: A balance between grassy and citrus notes with underlying sweetness and spiciness.
Unique Characteristics: Noted for its lightness despite the high ABV (55.9%), with a flavor profile that includes vanilla, dryness, citrus notes, fruitiness, almonds, toffee apples, and a peppery spice without bitterness or dark chocolate notes.
Comparison: No direct comparisons made, but its uniqueness is highlighted as a first release from the distillery's original stocks.

Distillery History: Teaninich Distillery, founded in 1817, celebrated its 200th anniversary with this bottle. It's noted as the surviving distillery among three or four in its area and has a history of overcoming challenges, including a closure during the British recession in the mid-80s.
Production Details: The distillery was known for its fine quality since the 19th century and was the only one north of Inverness to be lit by electricity, indicating early innovation.

Historical Significance: Teaninich's establishment predates the effective ban on distilling in the Highlands, showcasing its long-standing presence and significance in Scottish whisky history.
Geographical Influence: The distillery's location in the coastal Highland region and its historical context contribute to its identity and the character of its whisky.

"Easily enjoyable as an aperitif or with oriental cuisine...combines grassy and citrus notes to great effect."
"This is really the right strength. Don't go below 50."
"Quite a good dram. And very good for the first one from Teaninich."

Teaninich 17 Years is a special release single malt Scotch whisky from the coastal Highland region, matured in American oak.
It features a light and balanced flavor profile with citrus, vanilla, and a peppery spice, without heavy bitterness.
The distillery has a rich history, including early adoption of electricity for lighting.
This release is notable for collectors as the first of its kind from Teaninich's original stocks.
Expert opinions praise its balance and suitability for both aperitif and deeper exploration.

Whisky Collectors: Given its status as a first release and part of a special series, collectors would find this bottle particularly appealing.
Connoisseurs of Lighter Whiskies: Those who prefer a lighter, citrus-forward profile with a complex balance of sweetness and spice.
Fans of Highland Whiskies: Individuals interested in exploring the unique characteristics of whiskies from the coastal Highland region.
Beginners with a High Budget: New whisky enthusiasts looking to explore high-quality, unique expressions, provided they are willing to invest.