Clynelish 14 Year Old Whisky Review

If you’re feeling low, there’s nothing quite like a wee dram of whisky to lift the spirits. If you’re feeling happy, there’s no finer way of celebrating than with a glass of your favourite whisky. Basically, what we’re trying to say is that whisky is life.

The rugged and windswept Highlands of Scotland are of course synonymous with whisky distillation, yet few distilleries have such a rich and storied history of Clynelish.

Clynelish Distillery was originally founded in 1819, though in 1969, it would change its name to Brora. In 1968, new Clynelish Distillery was built, with the goal of meeting the demand for single malt in the region. For a while, the two distilleries would operate in synergy with one another.

In 1983 however, Clynelish was forced to close down, though recently reopened following heavy investment from owners Diageo. Those who are familiar with Clynelish, will know that the whisky has a very strong connection with Johnnie Walker blended whisky, as for years as much as 95% of spirit they produced has been used in Johnnie Walker whisky, particularly their Gold Label Reserve.

Clynelish have a reputation for peaty, smoky, fiery single malts, which any Scotch drinker will tell you, is certainly not a bad thing. Their 14 Year Old however, has generated quite the buzz in the whisky world and has gotten people talking for all the right reasons.

Clynelish 14 Year Old

If you’re a fan of coastal, peaty, smoky, and fiery single malts, the kind that put hairs on your chest, then Clynelish 14 Year Old is the tipple you’ve been waiting for.

With a gorgeous deep amber colour, and matured in ex-bourbon casks, the whisky has all of the trademark characteristics of a single malt that you’d expect to find in one that has been matured in ex-bourbon casks.

The whisky boasts a stunning flavour profile coupled with strong floral and decidedly waxy notes. If you’re looking for a well-rounded Highlander, the kind of which transports you to the highest Highland glen upon your first sip, you need look no further than Clynelish 14 Year Old.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, this fiery 46% ABV tipple rewards your senses with scents of light woodsmoke, tangerine, lime peel, lemon zest, and lavender.

On the palate, you’ll taste fiery root ginger, oranges, dry oak, vanilla, mixed fruits, nutmeg, and a touch of leather.

The finish is fairly long, with charred oak notes coming through, combined with bitter orange and raisins, providing a bitter sweetness that develops overtime.

To enjoy a beverage every bit as special as the Clynelish 14, or any other number fabulous whiskies, be sure to visit https://greatdrams.com/ and see what they’re all about.

Here you’ll find a selection of rare and award-winning whiskies to suit all palates and all budgets. From single malts and blends to grain whiskies and bourbons, Great Drams have got you covered.

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Greg

My name is Greg, and I’m a brand strategy consultant, writer, speaker, host and judge specialising in premium spirits. My mission is to experience, share and inspire with everything great about whisky, whiskey, gin, beer and fine dining through my writing, my brand building and my whisky tastings.