Miltonduff 9 (Single Cask Nation)

Single Cask Nation doesn't receive many reviews here, and honestly, I don't taste their offerings as often as those from larger independent bottlers. However, thanks to a special deal at my preferred bar, I can give them some of the attention they deserve and also try a distillery I haven't experienced before. This young and vibrant Miltonduff presents a somewhat unusual aroma with hints of bananas. It's perfectly drinkable at its stated strength and has a pleasant oily quality. Flavors of orange and toasted malt lead to a lengthy and spicy conclusion. The aroma expands with water, revealing scents of hay. It's succulent and lemony on the palate, then sweet and tart. Overall, it's an interesting spirit offering good value. One reason I'm happy to highlight Single Cask Nation is that in addition to bottling quality whisky at reasonable prices, they also produce a very informative podcast, One Nation Under Whisky. In fact, it's the only podcast I always make time to listen to. Give it a listen if you're at all interested in the process of making and selling whisky.