Cu Bocan Creation #9 Virgin American Oak & Manzanilla Sherry Cask

With twelve active stills and an output of around 5 million litres/year Tomatin is one of the largest distilleries in the Highlands. Yet at one point in the 1970s it was the largest distillery in Scotland: founded in 1897, the real expansion at Tomatin took place between 1956 and 1974, during which period the number of stills increased from 2 to 23.

These 23 stills gave the distillery a capacity of 12 million litres - meaning it was (in production terms at least) larger even than Roseisle, Diageo's new mega-distillery. However, 11 of Tomatin's stills were dismantled in the 1980s during the whisky crisis which forced the distillery into bankruptcy and liquidation. Enter the Japanese to save the day.

These days, much of Tomatin's output is sold to other companies for blending, but there is also a range of well-priced single malts, including a 12 yo, 18yo, 25yo and occasional vintage bottlings. Independent releases are occasionally spotted as well. Michael Jackson describes the house style as 'Malty, spicy, rich. Restorative or after dinner'.

The majority of the spirit spent over 17 years maturing in American Virgin Oak, a rare approach in Scotch whisky. This lengthy maturation develops layers of vanilla, honey, caramel and warming spice.

A portion of the whisky was then shaped by Manzanilla sherry casks, bringing notes of salted caramel, toasted almonds and a subtle coastal freshness.

Together, these casks create the signature character of Creation #9: sweet and salty popcorn, crisp orchard fruit and warming cinnamon.

Nose: Vanilla, honey and caramel sweetness lead the way, balanced by notes of salted popcorn and toasted almonds. Warming cinnamon and nutmeg add depth, while a subtle coastal freshness lingers in the background.

Palate: Sweet at first, with layers of caramelised orchard fruit, baked apple and ripe pear. Bright citrus and toasted oak bring structure, while gentle spice and a savoury edge reminiscent of salted popcorn create intrigue.

Finish: Long and warming, with lingering sweet oak, cinnamon spice and toasted nuts. A delicate maritime salinity remains on the palate, leaving behind the unmistakable sweet-and-salty character that defines Creation #9