Whisky Review/Tasting: The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The Singleton of Glen Ord is produced at the Glen Ord distillery.
Type: Single malt Scotch whisky.
Distillation: Utilizes six huge pot stills in a modern still house. The distillery also has its own drum maltings with a significant capacity, supplying malts to other Diageo distilleries.
Maturation: Aged for 18 years, with a special selection of American and European oak casks used for balanced maturation.
Age Statement: 18 years.
ABV: 40%.
Color and Clarity: Artificially colored.
Bottle Design: The bottle design incorporates the distillery's name subtly, with the brand name "The Singleton" being more prominent.

Balance of Flavors: Described as perfectly balanced, with a rich and smooth profile.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky has a deeper, darker flavor profile, with sweetness, spiciness, and notes of honey, hazelnuts, leather, dried fruit, vanilla, caramel, bergamot oil, and chocolate.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, the reviewer notes that there are other whiskies from Diageo that might be considered better balanced or better tasting.

Distillery History: Glen Ord has been handcrafting fine single malt whiskies since 1838.
Production Insights: The long fermentation process (up to five days) and slow distillation in traditional copper pot stills are highlighted as contributing to the whisky's complexity and depth of flavor.

Geographical Context: The barley used in the whisky often comes from the nearby Black Isle, known for its rich, dark soil. The distillery also emphasizes the use of mountain water from two remote mountain lochs, referred to as the waters of heaven and earth.

Opinions: The reviewer, Horst Luening, expresses a preference for some other Diageo whiskies over The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 years but acknowledges its quality and balance.
Quotes: "As long as there is a mouse on the computer, this whisky is handcrafted."

The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 years is a single malt Scotch whisky with a rich and smooth flavor profile, aged in a mix of American and European oak casks.
It features a complex blend of sweet, spicy, and mature notes, including honey, hazelnuts, leather, and chocolate.
The distillery has a long history and employs traditional production methods, including long fermentation and slow distillation, to achieve depth of flavor.
The whisky's geographical context, including the use of local barley and mountain water, adds to its unique character.
Expert opinion suggests that while there may be better whiskies within Diageo's portfolio, The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 years stands out for its balance and quality.

Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a deep appreciation for traditional distillation methods and the subtleties of aged single malts will likely enjoy this whisky.
Collectors: Given the potential scarcity and rising prices of aged single malts, collectors may find this 18-year-old expression a valuable addition to their collection.
Beginners: New whisky drinkers interested in exploring aged single malts with a balanced and complex flavor profile might find The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 years an accessible and rewarding choice.