Clynelish 14 Year Old: The Waxy Highland Gem — Brora's Replacement and the Backbone of JW Gold

Item: Clynelish 14 Year Old: The Waxy Highland Gem — Brora's Replacement and the Backbone of JW Gold
Rating: 8
Author: Joe Whitfield

Joe Whitfield April 10, 2026 1 views

8 /10

EDITOR

Distillery: Clynelish Distillery
Type: Scotch
Age: 14 Years
ABV: 46% ABV
Price: £38

Tasting Notes

Nose

Beeswax, honey, tropical fruit, orange peel, sea salt, vanilla, candle wax, light coastal minerality — the waxy signature immediately apparent

Palate

Waxy, oily texture — rich butterscotch, orchard fruits, white grape, lemon zest, gentle brine, toffee, light pepper — creamy, medium-bodied

Finish

Medium-long — crème brûlée, caramel, poached pear, white chocolate, mild spice, a distant whisper of peat — the wax carrying through

First Impressions

Clynelish 14 — built 1967 to replace legendary Brora next door. The backbone of JW Gold Label. Famous waxy character. Coastal Highland, 46%.

Tasting

Beeswax and honey nose. Waxy palate with butterscotch, orchard fruits, and brine. Medium-long finish with crème brûlée and pear. The wax is the signature.

The Verdict

Clynelish 14 earns an 8 — one of Diageo's best hidden gems at £38. The waxy character from tall stills is unique and addictive. 46% is generous for Diageo. Brora's replacement, earning its own legend.

Where to Buy

Master of Malt
£53.50

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The Whisky Exchange
£399.00

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Joe Whitfield

Editor-in-Chief

Joe has spent over fifteen years immersed in the whiskey industry, beginning his career at a Speyside distillery before moving into drinks journalism. As Editor-in-Chief at Whiskeyful.com, he oversees...