Whisky Review/Tasting: The Singleton of Glendullan 12 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The Singleton of Glendullan originates from the Glendullan Distillery in Dufftown, Speyside, Scotland, established in 1897.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: The whisky undergoes a long fermentation process, up to five days, and slow distillation in pear-shaped pot stills. It is matured in both American and European oak casks.
Age Statement: 12 years.
Color and Clarity: Although not explicitly described, the whisky is artificially colored.
Bottle Design: The bottle shares a green, flat shape design common to The Singleton brand, aimed at cost-saving in production.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky is described as balanced, with a smooth and drying spiciness.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its vanilla and caramel notes, with a fruitiness that leans towards apple crumble rather than fresh apple. It also presents a mellow spiciness, a hint of chocolate from the European oak, and a long, warming aftertaste.
Comparison: An interesting anecdote is shared about the whisky being used in a mimicry attempt of the Cardhu 12 years old, with some blind tasters preferring The Singleton of Glendullan.

Anecdotes: The distillery's location in Dufftown, known as the "hidden capital of the Scottish whisky production," and the story of its attempt to mimic Cardhu 12 years old due to its popularity in Southern Europe, are highlighted.
Trivia: The Singleton brand encompasses different distilleries, including Glendullan, Glen Ord, and Dufftown, with the packaging designed to save costs.

Historical Context: Dufftown's reputation as a significant whisky production area, with the rhyme comparing it to Rome, underscores the cultural and geographical importance of the region to Scotch whisky.
Geographical Context: The distillery's proximity to the River Fiddich and sourcing of water from the high wooded Cornwall hills above the distillery Glen are noted.

"This whisky is well sipping, easily going, welcoming, friendly, smooth... one of the better new bottles appearing in 2016."
"It's a full liter bottle, so there's 30% more in this bottle than in the typical other bottles and it's around 50 as I said so I think it is reasonably priced."

The Singleton of Glendullan 12 years is a single malt Scotch whisky from Speyside, known for its balanced flavor profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of chocolate.
The distillery's history and location in Dufftown contribute to its cultural significance.
An interesting story shared is the attempt to mimic Cardhu 12 years old due to its popularity, with some preferring The Singleton of Glendullan.
The whisky is considered good value for money, especially given its liter bottle size.

For Beginners: Its smooth, welcoming profile makes it an excellent choice for those new to Scotch whisky.
For Scotch Enthusiasts: The interesting backstory and the distillery's traditional production methods may appeal to more experienced whisky drinkers.
For Collectors: The anecdote about the mimicry attempt and the brand's history might make this bottle a unique addition to a collection.