Singleton of Dufftown 12 Year Old 70cl

A relaunched Singleton, this time from Dufftown, to replace the now-defunct Singleton of Auchroisk. This smooth, mellow dram is designed to attract new drinkers to the malt category.

• APPEARANCE

  Deep gold, polished mahogany highlights.

• NOSE

  Approachable and rich. First polished wood and nuts (toasted hazelnut) dominate, then rich fruits, both stewed (baked apples) and dried (sweeet dates) take over, with soft brown sugar. Behind this, a stick of liquorice. Mossy. Water brings out a sweeter, more direct Speyside character (citrus fruits, pear drops!). Clean and dense. After a while, warm, dry aromas of pencil shavings or match-sticks.

• BODY

  Smooth. Medium.

• PALATE

  Sweetness and crunchy nuts impress at first, then there's a smooth, fruity Speyside richness to enjoy. Firm, with a balancing sweetness: hints of blackcurrant fruit, brown sugar and espresso coffee. Warming and pleasant. With water, still a pleasant texture. Light sweetness, then chewy and balanced by a light acidity, with a good spread of flavours mid-palate.

• FINISH

  Medium to long. Elegantly drying and crisp; then a sweetly nutty delayed warmth, which lingers pleasantly.