Diageo’s Singleton Glen Ord 17 Year Old is causing a stir, and not just because of its age. This special release is delivering a genuinely unexpected flavor profile: a distinctly flapjack-like one. The combination of two carefully selected cask types – Mexican ex-mezcal and second-fill Spanish sherry – has resulted in a single malt that’s captivating palate and proving surprisingly complex.
The spirit itself presents beautifully. It boasts a medium gold hue, accompanied by fine beading around the rim of the glass, a hallmark of well-matured Scotch.
The Sensory Experience
Initial aromas immediately evoke ‘bright golden cereal’, intertwined with the familiar sweetness of ‘flapjack with golden syrup’. This nose sets the stage for what’s to come. The palate confirms this impression. A medium mouthfeel supports notes of oats and golden syrup, subtly balanced by the bright fruit characters of red apple and orange peel. The finish is particularly noteworthy – a long, lingering embrace of those rolled oats and golden syrup, leaving a satisfying warmth.
Expert Opinion
Ed Leigh, of TopWhiskies.com, succinctly captures the essence: ‘good quality single malt, with an enjoyable flapjack profile.’ Leigh, a seasoned spirits reviewer holding certifications in both wine and spirits from The Wine & Spirit Education Trust, clearly appreciated the distinctive character of this release. The whiskey was provided to reviewers as a sample, underlining the independent assessment.
Availability & Considerations
While the unusual flavor profile might not be for everyone, the Singleton Glen Ord 17 Year Old offers a fascinating exploration of cask influence and a memorable sensory experience. Keep an eye out for availability, and be prepared for a spirit that dares to be different.
