The single grain sector is indeed gaining popularity, and although I did not plan it, this is becoming a grain centric week here on the blog. Recently Diageo has launched a new line of single grain whisky from the now closed distillery of Port Dundas. Based in Glasgow, the historic distillery closed in 2010 as Diageo moved the majority of its grain whisky production to Cameronbridge – leading to the loss of around 900 jobs. There had been quite a few IB bottling of the distillery, but not officially released by Diageo until now. The lineup currently will have a 12 year old bottled at 40% abv, and a 18 year old at 43% abv. The release is intended for the US market, priced at $49.99 and $99.99 respectively. I was able to taste both versions yesterday, so let’s see how they are..
Port Dundas 12 yo, 40% abv , $49.99 
Nose : Quite light and floral with vanilla and spice, cereal and honey nut. Quite fresh and summery.
Palate : Sweet and spicy entry with vanilla ginger and baking spices. Getting creamier and Sweeter with milk chocolate and cereal, nuts and wood. With the milk chocolate playing first violin.
Finish : Dry. Mocha and semi sweet dark chocolate.
Conclusion:
Not the most complex but enjoyable even on the rocks or in cocktail. But nice straight too, I was not expecting a lot since IMHO single grain start to shine mostly after they go into their 20’s. At this tender age, they are mostly light and good for summer on the rocks.
Score: 81/100
Port Dundas 18 yo, 43% abv , $99.99 
Nose : a bit deeper less floral with vanilla and treacle. A hint of smokiness too. Damp wood. Deep caramel and chocolate.
Palate : Rich chocolate fudge with sweet treacle toffee and milky way bars. A bit sharp and rough at times as if the wood didn’t tame it enough..
Finish: Vanilla, chocolate and toffee. Bitter towards the very end. Not too long.
Conclusion:
I was expecting more from this one, but It is really not much different than the 12, a bit more chocolaty and sweet maybe, but lacking much wood influence. Too bad.
Score: 82/100
Both are ok single grains, but I find it hard to imagine I should invest $100 for that quality of single grain, as you can do much better with Independent bottlers bottling 25 + year old grain whisky for the same price .
official samples provided by Diageo