Summer. The perpetual season of rosé and everything pink (including strawberry sandwiches). Whilst the warmer weather may have you reaching for a glass of something chilled and refreshing, have you thought about a summer whisky or even a whisky cocktail?
Whisky is global. From varying types and flavours to the fascinating collector’s market, there is so much to talk about and sadly, far too much to cover in one blog. So, to make things easier, two single malts have been hand-picked from Tomatin’s core range of unpeated whiskies. They’re perfect drams to enjoy on their own or infused into some mouth-watering serves, with recipes included below courtesy of Tomatin.
Enjoy a journey of flavour with Whisky this Summer.
Tomatin: A Whistle-Stop History
Tanners is delighted to work so closely with Tomatin, an award-winning Highland distillery. The first official distillery started on site in 1897, with an unofficial history of distilling dating back much further. Regardless of the formalities, it’s safe to say that whisky has been integral to the land upon which Tomatin sits.
An enduring spirit, Tomatin overcame a brief closure from 1906 to 1909 when it was bought by a wine and spirit merchant and reopened under new ownership with revived enthusiasm. The Whisky boom following the Second World War saw Tomatin grow rapidly and by 1974 it was the largest malt distillery in the world.
The pressures of recession hit the whisky industry in the 1980s and Tomatin was one of many distilleries that were sadly forced to close. But, not for long. New ownership in the late 1980s and expansion in the 90s saw Tomatin expand once again.
In the early 2000’s, Tomatin’s focus shifted towards single malt production and over the last 25 years, it has become an unrivalled choice for whisky lovers who wish to experience a variety of cask finishes and age statements, with each bottling offering a unique and mouth-watering array of aromas and flavours.
A proud supporter of their community, Tomatin never fails to recognise the dedication of their workforce and the quality range reflects their unwavering passion for producing whiskies that everyone can share, enjoy and create fond memories over.
Two Single Malts: From drams to cocktails
Tomatin Legacy, Highland Single Malt Whisky, 43% vol
This unpeated whisky is a must-try for those of you who are new to exploring whisky or are searching for a fresh, light single malt.
Nose: Vanilla bean, white chocolate and cinnamon.
Palate: Fresh fruit peppered with ginger
Finish: Light and clean
Matured in: Bourbon barrels and Virgin Oak casks
A vital part of the community, Tomatin built homes for their workers to enable them to live close by to the heart of operations. Legacy is an affectionate nod to the spirit of community that is so important for Tomatin and the legacy still lives on to this day as workers still have homes on the estate.
Tomatin Legacy cocktails to try:
Iced T.E.A
A delicious blend of Tomatin Legacy, chilled Earl Grey tea and fresh apple juice is the ultimate tall cocktail.
View Recipe >
Lasting Legacy
The fresh fruit flavours of Tomatin Legacy complement this refreshing, tropical cocktail.
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Tomatin 12 Year Old, Highland Single Malt Whisky, 43% vol
Also part of Tomatin’s core range, this 12 year old unpeated single malt is a treasure trove of flavours and is a delicious dram showcasing the power and influence of Sherry casks on whisky.
Nose: Wild heather, pine and cedar
Palate: Crème caramel with apples, pears and mango
Finish: Full-bodied and buttery
Matured in: Bourbon barrels and Sherry casks
Free Burn Highball
A highball glass serve, this fiery cocktail with ginger ale and aromatic angostura bitters is superb for those who prefer a little kick in their cocktail. A refreshing drink for warm, sunny days, it’s a cocktail with a difference that is perfect for slow-sipping, early afternoon drinks or evening get-togethers this summer.
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Bold Fashioned
With rich coffee and roasted walnut flavours, this warming cocktail will pair beautifully with sun-kissed evenings and slow sunsets. It’s not your typical fruit-punch style drink, it’s dark, smooth and brooding – a journey of flavour best enjoyed over ice with good company and charming conversation.