The Singleton of Dufftown 17 Year Old from Diageo's 2020 Special Releases. It was the first official Singleton of Dufftown matured entirely in refill American oak hogsheads, bottled at a natural cask strength of 55.1% ABV without chill filtration.
About This Whisky
For the 2020 Special Releases, themed Rare by Nature, Diageo bottled a 17-year-old Singleton drawn only from refill American oak hogsheads. Refill wood gives less vanilla and colour than fresh casks, so the aim was to show the fresh, spring-like side of the spirit itself. The label shows the Singleton leaping fish among wildflowers and brambles. It was released in limited quantities in autumn 2020.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Mellow honeycomb and spun honey, a trace of beeswax, dry grasses and fresh orchard fruit on an earthy base. Water adds pear drops.
- Palate: Creamy-smooth and coating, sweet and intense at full strength, with honey, vanilla custard and apple.
- Finish: Quite long and warming, with white pepper turning to a gentle chilli tingle; a drop of water calms the spice.
Serving & Food
At 55.1% it is worth reducing a little. Pour into a small tulip glass at room temperature and add still water a few drops at a time. It pairs with apple crumble, pork belly with apple sauce, or a young, creamy Wensleydale.
How to Enjoy
Special Releases collectors, and fans of unpeated Speyside who like to taste a distillery's spirit without heavy cask influence.
Product Details
Distillery: Dufftown
Brand: The Singleton of Dufftown
Country: Scotland
Region: Speyside
Series: Diageo Special Releases 2020
Age: 17 years old
Cask: Refill American oak hogsheads
Filtration: Non-chill filtered
ABV: 55.1%
Volume: 700mL
About the Distillery
Dufftown distillery began life as a mill and started producing whisky in 1896. In 1933 it became part of Arthur Bell & Sons, and for decades its malty, nutty spirit was a working part of the Bell's blend, with the still house growing in stages to meet demand. Today it runs six stills. Since 2006 its single malt has been sold as The Singleton of Dufftown, a range built around a smooth, grassy and fruity house style. Its neighbours in the same small town include Mortlach, Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Glendullan.