Diageo has added two variants to The Singleton of Dufftown single malt Scotch whisky range.
Tailfire and Sunray have been created using specially selected casks to enhance particular elements of the flavour profile of this classic Speyside malt whisky. The aim, the company says, is “to inspire a new generation of whisky drinkers by putting flavour at the heart of everything we do and continuing our quest to create amazing tasting whiskies”.
Tailfire’s character comes from maturation in a higher proportion of European oak casks selected to enhance the juicy red berry freshness and sweet aromas of vanilla and fresh cut grass. This variant will be launching in both grocery and whisky specialists this month across a number of markets in Western Europe (UK, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, Denmark, and Germany in July 2014). UK market RRP £33.
The smooth yet intense character of Sunray comes from maturation in a higher proportion of toasted Bourbon casks that deliver a honeyed, vanilla sweetness with aromas of blackcurrant and baked apple. It will be launching exclusive to whisky specialists this month across a number of markets in Western Europe (UK, France, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland and Denmark). UK market RRP £36.
For the packaging of the whiskies, colourful packaging, indicative of the taste profile, and clear flavour descriptors were chosen to try and demystify the single malt whisky category and better communicate the flavours that people can expect.
Diageo master blender, Dr Matthew Crow, who created Tailfire and Sunray, comments: “I am immensely proud of these two single malts. Tailfire and Sunray embody the future of whisky, and have been created to inspire a new generation of whisky drinkers.”
The names Tailfire and Sunray are derived from the names of salmon flies, inspired by The Singleton’s icon, the leaping salmon. and fly-fishing near the distillery on the River Spey. The names are colourful, vibrant and interesting whilst also being indicative of the flavour profile of each whisky.
Tailfire and Sunray join The Singleton family alongside the 12, 15 and 18 year old expressions.
11 March 2014 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor