There are some whiskies you buy with your head. This one? I bought with my heart.
The latest Daftmill release — the 2009 15 Year Old Aqvavitae Small Batch — is more than just a bottle. It’s a story, a celebration, and above all, a guarantee of quality.
Daftmill is unlike most other distilleries. Nestled in the Lowlands of Scotland on a working farm in Fife, it’s a true family-run operation. Francis Cuthbert distils in harmony with the agricultural calendar, producing spirit only during the farm’s quiet periods. The result? Meticulous small-batch releases that are almost always snapped up by those in the know.
But this bottle adds another layer: community. Roy Duff, the voice behind the beloved Aqvavitae whisky platform and brilliant vlogger, partnered with Francis to select this release. Their unlikely bond — sparked by a mutual affection for… wheelie bins — grew into collaboration. (Yes, the plastic bins used to store barley during Daftmill’s early days feature as an inside joke on the back label.)
Roy visited Daftmill in 2024 and, staying true to his signature style, chose two bourbon casks (053 and 055) that he felt truly reflected Daftmill’s elegance. Francis agreed to vat them, resulting in 362 bottles at a natural cask strength of 55% ABV. By bottling day, the whisky had turned 15.
So why did I choose it? Honestly, the price was a stretch — but the promise was rock solid. Daftmill doesn’t hype. It delivers. And this one delivered in spades.
Nose: Zesty citrus, summer fruits like plums, and vanilla (maybe barley sugar)
Palate: Creamy, citrusy, rhubarb & custard. Warm lush taste. Summer time, but with a little heavy hand
Finish: Just sit back, take your time and enjoy.
Would I buy it again? This is where I would have to say know because of the price, but it is a single cask and sold out within days.
BUT, it is a dram that more than earned its place on the shelf.
