This Tiny Scottish Distillery is Churning Out One of the Best Single Malt Whiskies of the Year

As a whisky enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of tasting some of the finest drams from around the world. But every now and then, I come across a whisky that truly surprises me - and that’s exactly what happened when I tried the new cask-strength expression from Daftmill.

A picturesque landscape from the Lowland region of Scotland, where Daftmill distillery is located.

Daftmill, a small, family-owned distillery located in the Lowland region of Scotland, has been making waves in the whisky world with its latest release. This U.S. exclusive single malt is a game-changer, boasting a rich flavor profile, complexity, and an overall enjoyment that’s hard to match.

As an independent operation, Daftmill is free from the corporate pressures that often come with being part of a larger spirits company. This allows them to focus on producing high-quality whisky, untainted by commercial interests.

(_download_image) The Daftmill distillery, nestled in the Lowland region of Scotland.

The distillery’s history dates back to 2005, when Francis and Ian Cuthbert started producing whisky on their family farm. Unlike many other new distilleries, Daftmill didn’t rush to release young whiskies to make a quick buck. Instead, they took their time, and the first whisky wasn’t released until 2018 - a 12-year-old single malt that set the tone for the quality to come.

The new Daftmill 2010 Cask Strength is a masterclass in whisky production. Aged in 15 first-fill ex-bourbon barrels, this 12-year-old expression has been bottled at 58.7 percent ABV, making it a true powerhouse of flavor. The whisky is made from Optic barley, grown on the family farm, and the result is a single-estate product that showcases the best of Scotland’s Lowland region.

The art of whisky tasting - a sensory experience like no other.

At 58.7 percent ABV, this is a high-proof whisky that demands attention. The color is a beautiful light copper-orange, reminiscent of honey, which is also one of the first notes that leaps out at you on the nose, along with vanilla and apricot. On the palate, the vanilla continues to shine, morphing into custard-like sweetness, complemented by fennel pollen, banana, spice, leather, and oak.

Make no mistake, this is a special whisky that deserves to be savored. And at $325 per bottle, it’s an investment worth considering for any serious whisky collector.

A whisky collection like no other - a testament to the beauty of whisky.

In conclusion, the Daftmill 2010 Cask Strength is a true masterpiece of whisky production. It’s a whisky that will surprise you, delight you, and leave you wanting more. If you’re a fan of single malt whisky, or just looking to try something new, do yourself a favor and give this whisky a try.

Score: 97