Singleton of Dufftown Malt Master's Selection

Not a favourite

Nose: Immediately very fruity (apples and pairs mainly) with a background of vanilla and caramel and a prominent grassy, honey note. There is a quality to the nose that is very reminiscent of a good blended whisky. The sweetness builds over time but it remains brisk and not cloying. [The dry glass aroma is mainly light ashy smoke]. Palate: A lightly oily and sweet arrival with fruity notes (apple and pear again). As it develops some vanilla and honey becomes apparent, and then there is a wave of very strong esters like fruit flavoured cordial syrup. A little orange essence and chocolate, caramel malted milk, and a touch of peppery spice. There is a metallic note (only slight) but it jars the palate a little. Finish: Medium/short. Fruity and caramel notes that fade into a slightly bittersweet aftertaste with the metallic quality remaining. This is an obviously young single malt. It's very estery and spirit led and the casks were good but not first-fill. The nose lacks the depth and complexity of a good single malt, but it is nevertheless pleasant and refreshing. The overall profile is very like that of a quality blended scotch and the whisky works nicely as a mixer with soda and ice. Dilution tames the fruity characteristics a little on both the nose and palate and is recommended. Actually, with just a dash of plain water it makes a very nice quaffing malt on a hot day, and I'm sure it would be right at home in a highball. At the price it is good value and it would be fine as an occasional alternative to one's usual mixing blend. "Average" : 79/100 (2.75 stars)