Clynelish Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Clynelish single malt Scotch whisky is one of the Highland region’s most distinctive and intriguing malts, renowned for its waxy texture, coastal freshness, and subtle complexity. Located in Brora, on Scotland’s north-east coast, the distillery was founded in 1819 by the Marquis of Stafford (later the Duke of Sutherland) as part of his broader economic developments in the region. Today, Clynelish is part of Diageo’s portfolio and is prized both as a single malt and as a key component in premium blends like Johnnie Walker Gold Label.

The modern Clynelish distillery was built in 1967 alongside the original 19th-century site, which later became the legendary Brora Distillery. Brora, now revived, produced heavily peated whisky for a period, while Clynelish focused on its signature unpeated style. This proximity has given the Clynelish name a unique heritage, linking it to one of Scotland’s most sought-after closed distilleries.

Clynelish’s character is often described as “waxy”, a rare textural quality in whisky, attributed to both its specific distillation regime and meticulous equipment maintenance. Long fermentation times and tall copper pot stills help produce a clean, complex spirit, while a quirk of the distillery’s production process preserves the naturally occurring waxy esters that give the whisky its silky mouthfeel.

Flavour-wise, Clynelish offers a fascinating balance. Expect aromas of beeswax, coastal salt, and fresh citrus, alongside floral notes and gentle spice. On the palate, it’s typically medium-bodied, with a mix of sweet malt, briny freshness, and a subtle mineral quality that many fans liken to wet stone or sea spray. The finish is often long, with a dry, slightly peppery edge.

Clynelish is matured in a variety of cask types, though ex-bourbon barrels are most common, emphasising vanilla sweetness and creamy textures that complement the spirit’s natural brightness. Occasional use of sherry casks introduces richer notes of dried fruit and spice. Official bottlings include the well-regarded 14 Year Old, a mainstay in Diageo’s single malt range, and various limited editions released through the Special Releases programme. Independent bottlers such as Signatory Vintage, Gordon & MacPhail, and Hunter Laing also offer single cask expressions that showcase different facets of the distillery’s style, from fresh and zesty to richer, oak-driven interpretations.

Despite its distinctive profile, Clynelish remains something of an insider’s whisky. It is beloved by enthusiasts who appreciate its complexity and textural uniqueness, yet it still flies under the radar compared to some of its Highland peers. This makes it a rewarding discovery for those looking to explore beyond the most famous names and experience a malt with a strong sense of place and personality.

Our Clynelish Single Malt Scotch Whisky selection includes the classic 14 Year Old, limited official releases, and rare independent bottlings. Whether you’re tasting it neat to enjoy its layered profile, exploring it alongside Brora for historical context, or adding it to your collection as one of the whisky world’s more distinctive Highland voices, Clynelish offers a combination of texture, flavour, and heritage that is truly its own.