The Singleton of Dufftown 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Distillery Background and History

Dufftown Distillery, founded in 1896 in Speyside, Scotland, is known as “The Malt Whisky Capital of the World.” It primarily produces whisky for blends, particularly Singleton, but has garnered attention for its age-statement releases. Under Diageo ownership, its Speyside malts have grown in prominence through the Singleton brand range  .

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

The Singleton range doesn’t promote a single master distiller; rather, Diageo’s blending team steers production philosophy. Their focus is on gentle, approachable whiskies, favoring balanced oak maturation and natural colour without chill filtration for flavor consistency ().

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

This is a single malt made from 100% malted barley. Water is drawn from local Speyside springs. Yeast is proprietary Speyside strain managed in-house, imparting regional character  .

Distillation Process

The whisky is double-distilled in traditional copper pot stills designed for clean, balanced spirit. Dufftown’s modest-sized stills and slow runs contribute to the malt’s refinement ().

Maturation & Cask Information

Aged 18 years primarily in American oak hogsheads, with a smaller portion in European oak to balance the profile. Aged in Speyside’s moderate climate, this veteran malt achieves rich vanilla and oak undertones  .

Tasting Notes

Rich golden amber colour. Aromas of candied orange, dark toffee, ripe apple, vanilla, cinnamon spice, and oak. Palate is creamy with honey, dried fruit, dark chocolate, and subtle oak spice. Finish is smooth, nutty, and gently dry ().

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs beautifully with caramel desserts, dark chocolate, spiced or roasted nuts, mature cheddar cheeses, and dried fruit-cakes—complementing the whisky’s sweet and spice tones ().

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Enjoy neat or with a few drops of spring water in a Glencairn glass at 18–20 °C. Allow 10–15 minutes to fully develop aromas.

Storage and Aging Potential

Sealed bottles remain stable for years in cool, dark, and upright storage. Further aging in bottle won’t mature it further, but the profile remains harmonious.

Grain Type & Mash Bill

Single malt (100% malted barley) from Dufftown distillery  .

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40% ABV ().