Port Dundas 18 Year Single Grain

On this Scotch Day, I selected this bottle for the occasion. It looked interesting enough to open. Nose: It's lighter, yet has a pleasant, rich feel with notes of tangerine and lemon. Not the most captivating smell, but it offers some enjoyable, typical single grain characteristics. I detect a dry tartness from the grain that makes me concerned about harshness, but time will tell. Palate: Sweet vanilla notes combine with tangerine, lemon, and a touch of malty light caramel. It stings, regrettably but predictably. A youthful quality, common with single grains, is present. The flavors do meld nicely (apart from the sting). However, they lack depth. Finish: The sweetness persists, accompanied by a sting. The sweetness now has a grainier tone, with less vanilla and no caramel. The fruity tartness doesn't carry through. - Final Thoughts - This isn't my favorite, but it appears to be a well-made single grain. It's just a shame that grain whisky isn't very good. Compared side-by-side, a different bottle (12/23) genuinely tastes indulgent, presenting ample bourbon barrel richness. I believe this one stings more. It doesn't fare well against it. This Port Dundas shows light vegetal notes in contrast. A different 29-year-old expression (1987) (12/23) has significantly more oak influence (and obviously more intensity, being cask strength). I'd rate them closely, but the other one is superior. I suspect that one is a low 12, making this a 10 or 11. I'm leaning towards an 11, but it's a close call. Actually, this has less funk than the others, which is a plus. I initially thought it was a 10 or 11, but now I'm considering an 11 or 12. I'm definitely settling on an 11 now. This is a commendable single grain, but sadly another instance where grain whisky falls short of malt. Many thanks to a friend for sharing this! I had been searching for it for some time, so I'm relieved to conclude that search and move on to new quests:)

Lovely butter cookies, chocolate, toffee, and vanilla on the nose, a very smooth taste, and a medium finish. Not intricate, simply excellent. Revisit 8/18/22 Butter cookies, chocolate, and toffee on the nose; adds some graininess, heat, and sourness to the above tasting notes on the palate, with a medium finish. I don't believe being open for over two years has been beneficial for this spirit.

For its age, it's a bit muted. I'm curious about the 21+ year version. The aroma is subtle, highlighting pear which then evolves into honey and apple notes. It's quite pleasing, but I wouldn't repurchase it.

A uniquely sweet scotch that proudly displays its bourbon finish. It's worth trying whenever you have the chance.

Nose: pepper, oak, apple. Palate: Pepper, apple, pear, honey. Finish disappears quickly.

velvety caramel, fruit notes, dark chocolate