Clynelish 18 Year Old Waxen Sun 2025 Diageo Special Release Scotch Whisky

Clynelish “Waxen Sun” 18 Year Old shines as a luminous Highland malt where tropical fruit and signature waxy texture meet in perfect harmony. It’s elegant, sun-kissed, and full of depth—an expressive and innovative take on one of Scotland’s most distinctive single malts.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Released as part of the 2025 Diageo Special Releases, Waxen Sun highlights both traditional Clynelish character and creative distillation technique. Matured for 18 years in refill casks, it was bottled at natural cask strength (around 51.6% ABV) with no chill filtration or added color.

This release features an experimental “Pineapple Cut”—a special early cut during distillation that captures vibrant tropical esters, later blended back to enhance brightness and fruit expression. The result is a rare balance between classic wax, refined fruit sweetness, and polished Highland minerality.

Clynelish, situated in the northern Highlands near Brora, is famed for its waxy, textured spirit—a hallmark prized by blenders and single-malt enthusiasts alike. Waxen Sun amplifies that DNA with tropical exuberance and radiant warmth.

Tasting Profile

Nose: Bright tropical notes of pineapple, lychee, and melon open over a base of beeswax, chalk dust, and warm malt. Subtle citrus and mineral saltiness lend freshness.
Palate: Creamy and smooth, showcasing the house’s waxy texture. Waves of pineapple, soft citrus, and barley sweetness unfold with gentle oak spice and mineral clarity.
Finish: Long and elegant, with lingering fruit brightness, warm spice, and a soft waxy glow that persists like late-afternoon sunlight.

Quick Overview