Dating back to 2005 and 2008, respectively.
The marvel of time and the journey of casks make great Scotch whisky a spectacle to admire and enjoy. The Dalmore, renowned for its luxurious high-end Scotch, introduces two new whiskies that add to its already remarkable collection. Joining The Dalmore Vintage Collection are The Select Edition 2005 and Select Edition 2008, which undoubtedly carry the prestigious name of The Dalmore with pride.
The Dalmore Vintage collection is the result of the visionary collaboration between Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass and Master Distiller Richard Paterson OBE. Each whisky in this collection is meticulously hand-selected in November, upholding a cherished Dalmore tradition that has been carried on for over five decades.
Once a year, the esteemed whisky makers of The Dalmore make a pilgrimage to their historic warehouses nestled alongside the magnificent Cromarty Firth in the Scottish Highlands. Here, they reconnect with their rare casks, patiently awaiting the moment of maturation.
November, with its crisp and cool climate, provides the perfect conditions for the whisky makers to evaluate the potential of the whiskies resting within their casks. It is during this time that the true character of the whiskies begins to emerge. Only those who display truly outstanding qualities and possess a distinguished character are deemed worthy of being part of the revered Dalmore Vintage collection.
The 18-year-old 2005 release, priced at $499.99, showcases the distillery’s renowned “iconic chocolate and orange flavour profile.” Likewise, the 2008 Select Edition, priced at $199.99, continues to maintain this exceptional lineage.
The Dalmore Vintage 2005 has undergone maturation in American white oak ex-bourbon casks and has been enriched through carefully chosen Matusalem sherry and Vintage 2005 sherry casks. It is bottled at 49.3%. Described by the producers, this expression boasts aromas of dark chocolate and salted caramel, accompanied by flavours such as rich cacao, blood orange, and marzipan on the palate, among other notes.
These latest additions are the result of a meticulous selection process that has been ongoing for five decades, where the most exceptional Scotch is hand-picked from carefully chosen casks. The selected casks are combined with mature spirit to create a final blend that seamlessly harmonizes various flavours.
Gregg Glass particularly highlights the chocolate and citrus notes found in the 2005 expression, describing it as a taste sensation that will leave a lasting impression.
Commenting on the new releases, Glass said: “The annual cask inspection, which ultimately leads to the creation of each year Vintage Collection is a true highlight of working on The Dalmore. We can never know what time and nature have given to these whiskies until we take stock each November and see what magic has unfolded in the year. Richard and I select casks which we feel contain whiskies that exemplify The Dalmore’s quality and style, with the best of the best, becoming our Limited-Edition Vintages.
Regarding the 2008 edition, Glass applauds its elegance and refinement, capturing a moment in time that truly exemplifies The Dalmore’s craftsmanship. This edition underwent maturation in American white oak ex-bourbon casks and received a boost from carefully chosen Matusalem sherry and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. Bottled at 45.8% ABV, this expression is characterized by aromas of milk chocolate, caramel, and mandarin, accompanied by palate notes of manuka honey, sweet cacao, and poached apples, as described by the producers.
Both editions are presented in The Dalmore’s distinctive and eye-catching bottle, accompanied by a special-edition display box, providing a sophisticated centrepiece for any discerning whisky enthusiast’s bar cart.
The distillery assures us that these expressions embody the finest qualities of The Dalmore’s distinguished house style, making them a truly exceptional choice for any season.
