Clynelish
Distilleries here on the stormy sea coast of Sutherland were forever few and far between, yet malt whisky enthusiasts have always championed Clynelish™ over many more famous names. When the original distillery was built in 1819 by the future Duke of Sutherland, the quality of Clynelish™ whisky was so prized that only private customers were supplied.
Over the years, Clynelish™ has continued to be held in high regard by experts. The great Victorian, Professor George Saintsbury, selected it as a favourite and today’s malt whisky gurus consistently praise its unique combination of North Highland and maritime qualities.
You can almost taste the sea air in Clynelish, with its crisp, medium-bodied, mustard-fresh style. Although the forward, pungent smokiness of Islay seems to be absent at first, there are notable traces of it. Don’t think that this is a heavy malt, though. Its clean taste makes it a fine aperitif – and you can enjoy it just as much later in the evening, such is its versatility.