Tomatin 2009 16 Year Scotch

Because of the Manzanilla hogshead finish, this Tomatin 16 has a harmony of gentle sherry-type dryness (Manzanilla style), sweet fruit/banana, light nut/biscuit elements, but remains approachable at 46%. It likely retains the smoother, mellow Highland spirit character of Tomatin (rather than heavy peat or aggressive flavour)

• Independent bottling: A chance to taste a Tomatin expression from an independent bottler (Cadenhead’s) rather than only the official distillery bottlings.

• 16 year age statement + Manzanilla finish: The combination of 16 years’ maturation + sherry-type cask finish gives more maturity and complexity than younger core or entry malts.

• Highland region: For those who enjoy Highland malts (rather than Islay/peat or heavily sherried Speyside), this offers a nice balance of sweetness + subtle sherry wood.

• At 46% ABV this makes it fairly accessible (not ultra-high strength) but still with age and finishing to provide depth.