Review: The Singleton of Dufftown 12 year old single malt scotch whisky

Dufftown Distillery – Diageo

40% ABV

£32.45 for 70cl from Master of Malt

Score: 83/100

What they say:

THE SINGLETON OF DUFFTOWN 12 YEAR OLD
This smooth, naturally rich single malt whisky has sweet fruity notes and a lingering, pleasurable warmth.

STRENGTH 40% ABV

APPEARANCE Deep gold, polished mahogany highlights.

NOSE Toasted nut and rich fruit aromas. Adding a touch of water brings out the classic Speyside fruit-sweet aromas.

BODY Light to medium.

PALATE Sweetness and crunchy nuts, then smooth fruity richness. Firm, with a balancing sweetness; hints of blackcurrant, brown sugar and espresso coffee. Warming and pleasant.

FINISH Medium to long, elegantly drying and crisp with a delayed, lingering warmth.

What I say:

Sample B5B from the recent NAS vs age statement blind-tasting see The Great Age Statement Debate and Photo Finish Between Age Statement And NAS Whisky In Big Blind Tasting.

Colour:

Light amber gold (5/20) fine droplet tears leaving fine trails

Nose:

Musty, deep toffee and oak wood, orange liqueur, cherry, honey, apple, pear, fresh orchard fruits and their juices, caramel

Taste:

Honey, lots of cereal grains, caramel, cereal barley malt, toffee, vanilla custard, quite a simple palate but enjoyable with gentle spices

Finish:

Medium-long, spiced, drying orange zest

Overall:

Spicier and a lot less bitter than the Sunray expression