With all the Whisky Live Festival-buzz in Cape Town last week, there was a bit of time for me to sit back and savour something new.

I was invited to the launch of The Singleton of Dufftown Single Malt Scotch Whisky which took place at the award-winning Jardine restaurant in Breë Street.

The tasting was led by the Global Malts Director, Dr Nick Morgan and for a whisky novice, like me, it was highly informative and entertaining. We compared three vastly different whiskies, from a light and fragrant Glenkinchie to a peaty, smokey and salty Caol Ila. The Singleton stood up well, as it is fruity and well-rounded, so it lingers in the mouth.

We enjoyed deliciously delicate seared scallops followed by a veal “Wellington” with morel mushrooms. The dessert of macadamia nut crunch parfait with plum jelly and a brandy snap went exceptionally well with The Singleton – the caramel flavours coming out strongly.