17 Special Release 2020

The Singleton stands apart in Scottish whisky: a brand named for its character, not its distillery. Diageo introduced it in 2006 as a bold, approachable alternative to tradition-bound single malts — unburdened by heritage, focused on freshness and balance. This 17-year Special Release 2020 marks a turning point: the first Singleton matured exclusively in refill American oak hogsheads. That choice of refill wood — previously used, thus gentler — lets the malt itself take centre stage.

After seventeen years at cask strength (55.1%), bottled without colouring or chill-filtration, a whisky emerges with an airy, spring-like character. The nose reveals grassy notes, hints of coffee and dark chocolate. On the palate: a medium-full, creamy texture with orchard fruit, honey, and soft oak spices. Herbal and grassy elements persist, anchoring it firmly in Speyside.

This is The Singleton at its most honest — refined without pretence, yet deep enough to reward the seventeen years invested.