The Singleton of Dufftown 18 Year Old Review: 'Fruit and a touch of Pine'

The Singleton is a slightly unusual whisky. Not because it’s odd or eccentric; in fact, it’s a very tasty whisky. What stands out is that there are three distilleries where Singleton is made: Glen Ord, Glendullan, and Dufftown. Each has its own character and flavor profile. The Singleton whisky we’re discussing here is the one made in Dufftown.

Whisky has been distilled at the Dufftown distillery in Speyside since 1895. King Edward VII was among its admirers, and during his reign (early 1900s) it was already being enjoyed generously at the British court.

The distillery has had its ups and downs over the years, but today it runs 24/7. It produces roughly six million liters of alcohol per year. A substantial portion goes into Diageo’s blends (the current owner), but they also bottle some fine single malts.

The 18-year-old whisky is part of a broader range. In addition to the 18-year-old expression, there are 12-, 15-, 21-, and 25-year-old Singletons available.

This Singleton whisky comes in a striking blue-green package with gold and white lettering, instantly giving it an elegant, classic appearance.
On the back of the box you’ll find details including that this dram was matured in refill ex-bourbon casks and in PX and Oloroso casks. The bottle carries a clear label indicating, among other things, that it’s bottled at 40% ABV.

When the bottle opens, sweet notes come first. Think caramel, a touch of vanilla, freshly roasted nuts, and, faintly in the background, a whisper of pine. As the whisky sits in the glass, these notes grow more pronounced.

The whisky is sweet. More clearly than on the nose, you now taste vanilla, ripe apple, biscuits, and a hint of coffee or cocoa—the latter is a bit harder to pin down. We also pick up a touch of spice like bay leaf. The mouthfeel is lovely, slightly oily. Overall, the flavors are beautifully balanced.

The finish isn’t very long, though it’s well balanced. Think wood, homemade applesauce, a little spice, and a faint impression of a wisp of smoke.

This dram is beautifully balanced and, as the packaging promises, “Sublimely Smooth.” It’s a whisky that many people will appreciate. The flavor is highly approachable with no sharp edges. That makes it dangerously easy to drink.

You can confidently pour this for less experienced whisky fans too. Once the bottle has been open a while, it develops nicely and reveals more flavor. At this price, it really deserves a place in everyone’s cabinet, where else do you find a quality 18-year-old for around sixty euros? Just keep in mind it’s not the best fit if you’re used to single casks or Islay whiskies.

+ Approachable, flavorful whisky

+ Very well balanced

+ Pleasant mouthfeel

+ Occasionally surprising “little” flavor notes

- Not ideal if you’re used to single casks and/or Islay

Read more of our whisky reviews in this overview.