Teaninich Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Teaninich is a Highland single malt Scotch whisky distillery with a long history of producing distinctive, complex spirit, most of which has traditionally gone into blends rather than being released as single malt. Founded in 1817 by Captain Hugh Munro, a retired army officer, Teaninich has operated for over two centuries on the shores of the Cromarty Firth, near the village of Alness in Ross-shire.

For much of its life, Teaninich remained a hidden name in Scotch whisky, prized by blenders for its robust, malty, and slightly oily character. It has been an important component in blends from Johnnie Walker and other well-known labels. However, in recent years, whisky enthusiasts have discovered the unique appeal of Teaninich’s single malt through independent bottlings and occasional official releases.

One of the distillery’s most notable features is its unusual mash filtration system. Instead of using traditional mash tuns, Teaninich employs a hammer mill to grind the malt into a fine flour, which is then mixed with hot water and passed through a Meura mash filter, a method more commonly found in breweries. This process extracts a clear wort, contributing to the spirit’s distinctive texture and flavour profile.

Distillation takes place in pairs of copper pot stills, with a relatively long fermentation and careful cut points to maintain both freshness and weight in the spirit. The resulting new make is characterful, with grassy, herbal, and citrus notes layered over a malty backbone.

Teaninich’s maturation profile depends on the intended use of the spirit. Ex-bourbon casks are common, providing vanilla, honey, and light spice, but sherry casks have also been used to add dried fruit richness and depth. Long ageing brings out waxy, floral, and subtly earthy characteristics that make older Teaninich bottlings especially intriguing.

Flavour-wise, Teaninich is known for being bright, grassy, and slightly oily, with citrus zest, cut hay, green apple, and malty sweetness. Older expressions can show waxy textures, floral elegance, and savoury depth, while cask-strength editions often display a bolder spice and fruit intensity.

Though it remains under the radar compared to more famous Highland names, Teaninich has gained a growing following among whisky drinkers who value its distinctive production methods and fresh, vibrant style. Its relative rarity as a single malt also makes it a rewarding discovery for collectors.

Our Teaninich selection includes both official and independent bottlings, from approachable younger whiskies to rare, well-aged cask strength examples. Whether you’re exploring Highland malts, seeking something grassy and refreshing for summer, or adding a lesser-known name to your collection, Teaninich offers a compelling taste of Scotland’s whisky diversity, a hidden gem that’s been quietly shaping blends for over 200 years.