Clynelish 15 Year OId 1997 for The Bonding Dram

When I posted the tasting notes of the 21 Year Old ‘Birthday’ Bladnoch 1991, I already hinted at the second cask we had chosen for the 5th birthday of The Bonding Dram, a local retailer. We, in this case, is the twenty enthusiasts that selected this cask during a blind tasting. It turned out to be this 15 Year Old ‘Celebration’ Clynelish 1997.

The nose opens ons weet Turkish Delight and lightly burnt malt. Wonderfully round and creamy. The mineral side that is so typical for Clynelish is present here as well. Flints. Freshly cut grass and slices lemon dabbed in crystal sugar. A bit of butterscotch and some roasted almonds. Absolutely fabulous.

This continues brilliantly on the palate. The fruit is less dry now, so juicy. I get oranges, but also plums and pink grapefruit. Tonic and pepper. A light touch of nuts gives it a fine set of layers. Oh, the balance on this one. Clynelish 1997 is quickly rising on my list. This does not need water, but it takes it elegantly.

It appears spicy on the medium long, nicely warming, finish. It dies a bittersweet death.

What a beautiful, complex Clynelish. No wonder it was the big winner that night in June. And look at that dark mysterious label (containing the names of the aficionados who selected it). I am pretty sure this one will be going fast, so get it while you can. Only at The Bonding Dram for 65 EUR.

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