Clynelish 14 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch

Clynelish 14 Year is the signature expression of one of Scotland’s most unusual and celebrated distilleries — produced at Clynelish in Brora on the northern Highland coast, where a combination of coastal climate, lightly peated local barley, and a distinctive waxy character in the new-make spirit produces a single malt that is immediately recognisable and unlike any other Highland whisky.

The “waxiness” of Clynelish — described variously as beeswax, candle wax, or coastal oil — is a genuine and documented distillery characteristic. Clynelish is also the heart malt of Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve. Matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks for 14 years, non-chill filtered at 46% ABV.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Floral and coastal — beeswax, heather, lemon zest, stone fruit, and a distinctive waxy mineral note
• Palate: Medium-bodied and complex — the signature waxy texture, honeyed barley, light citrus, coastal brine, and gentle dried fruit
• Finish: Long, light, and dry with lingering wax, coastal mineral, and a clean maritime fade

Specs

• Distillery: Clynelish, Brora, Northern Highland
• Region: Highland, Scotland
• Age Statement: 14 Years
• Cask Type: American oak ex-bourbon
• ABV: 46%
• Filtration: Non-chill filtered
• Size: 750ml

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the waxy character in Clynelish?

The waxiness is a genuine distillery characteristic — a textural quality arising from the interaction between the tall, narrow Clynelish copper stills and the distillation cut points. It produces a coating mouthfeel and carries flavour through a longer, drier finish than most Highland expressions.

Why is Clynelish associated with Johnnie Walker Gold Label?

Clynelish is the heart malt of Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve — responsible for that expression's characteristic honeyed, waxy depth. Understanding Clynelish as a single malt gives direct insight into what Gold Label is built on.