Clynelish 12 Year Old 1996 Wilson & Morgan

Another Clynelish from the golden 1990s, but then with a Marsala finish by Italian bottler Wilson & Morgan. It has been in the bottle for as long as it had been in the cask. The fact that it could still be bottled at 60% begs the question: was it put to sleep on a higher ABV than the industry standard of 63.5%? I guess so.

Sweet nose, but mostly herbal with garden herbs, mustard seeds and even curry. Then some apples and oranges as well as some lemongrass. Where is the sweetness of the Marsala, though? It does have a surprising salty element, as if some seaweed made its way into my glass. When I add water (and I admit, it was more than a teaspoon), it becomes much sweeter, but loses the saltiness. It is not a bad thing.

On the palate, it’s a whole other story. First I get the oh so typical Clynelish traits: beeswax, quinine, oranges and peach. Followed by the very sweet wine and lots of herbs. But the ABV makes it quite scorching. A splash of water makes it creamier still, but also brings out more of the herbs.

Undiluted I am treated to a peppery, sweet and warm finish that lasts very long. Diluted it is more green, if you know what I mean. But equally long.

I found the nose underwhelming, but on the palate, this is great! A bit schizo, though, for nose and palate act completely opposite when water is added.

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