Clynelish 1997 "Cayenne Cocoa Bean"

Clynelish 1997 "Cayenne Cocoa Bean", 46 %

Time now to try another of the new single cask releases from Wemyss Malt. Today we are tasting the Clynelish 1997 "Cayenne Cocoa Bean".  Distilled in 1997, bottled in 2014, with a total outturn of 373 bottles. It has been matured in a hogshead, with no further details.

Clynelish is a Highland distillery, established back in 1967. They are owned by Diageo, and their production capacity is 4,8 million litres.

This whisky is as yet not available to buy online, but will appear shortly. No news as yet on whether it will be available to buy in Norway or Sweden, but we can always hope.

[Edit 2014-10-18]: We have just heard that this whisky will be available to buy in Norway in early January 2015. The sales price will be approximately NOK 1300.

Nose (21/25): Lemon soda, strawberries, and a hint of soap. After a while I detect pear, vanilla and waxy apples. Quite shy on the nose. Given even more time (I do not easily give up!) I also find prosecco and lemon zest.

Taste (21/25): Creamy and rich. Pepper, chocolate, ginger and caramel.

Finish (20/25): More pepper, with added salt and a pinch of chili. Still creamy/waxy. Apples and pears. Warm and medium long on the finish.

Balance (21/25): A nice Clynelish to keep us warm, as the evenings grow darker and colder.

Score (83/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas