Teaninich "Daring Rye" Aged 8 Years Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 2025 Special Release

Bold, experimental and defiantly Scottish—this is Teaninich stepping beyond tradition. The “Daring Rye” 8-Year-Old Special Release 2025 is distilled from a unique mash of malted rye and barley, then matured in American ex-bourbon casks, and bottled at a robust 60.3% ABV.

On the nose, you’ll discover creamy vanilla and sour-dough rye crust, layered with dried herbs, melon, orange zest, and subtle woody char. On the palate, this whisky lives up to its name, with biscuits, orchard-fruit sweetness, freshly cracked white pepper, green olive, and a hint of coconut peel unfolding, leading into charred oak undertones.

The finish is firm, slightly vegetal, and lingering, featuring malt dryness, rye spice, and a hint of salinity reminiscent of a clamshell. This is not the familiar Speyside model, but an adventurous departure. Drinkers who crave something daring will find it here.

Nose: Vanilla sponge, sour-dough rye, hints of melon and orange peel.

Palate: Crunchy biscuits, orchard fruits, white pepper spice, green olive, and coconut peel.

Finish: Dry oak, malt tang, rye-driven spice, faint salinity.

Pair with a bread pudding served with fig compote—the orchard fruit and biscuit notes carry through beautifully. For something savory, try grilled pork belly with orange glaze to echo the citrus and spice character. A sharp aged cheddar or smoked Gouda can balance the rye dryness and oak intensity without overshadowing the whisky’s unique flavour.