The Dalmore reveals Vintage 2005 and 2008 whiskies

Scotch brand The Dalmore has released two limited edition single malt whiskies as part of its Vintage Collection.

The 15-year-old Dalmore Vintage 2005 and the 18-year-old Dalmore Vintage 2008 form the third release from the distiller’s Vintage Collection.

The whiskies selected for the Vintage Collection are chosen by the casks that shine during the distillery’s annual cask inspection week in November — a tradition that dates back more than 50 years.

It takes place during November, described as the optimum time for the casks to rest in cooler temperatures after the warm summer months.

Master whisky maker Gregg Glass said: “The annual cask inspection, which ultimately leads to the creation of each year’s Vintage Collection, is a true highlight of working on The Dalmore.

“We can never know what time and nature has given to these whiskies, until we take stock each November and see what magic has unfolded in the year. Richard [Paterson] 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.

Vintage 2008 was matured in American white oak ex-Bourbon casks and enhanced by hand-selected Matusalem Sherry and Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks.

Bottled at an ABV of 45.8%, the whisky offers aromas of milk chocolate, caramel, mandarin and cracked black pepper. To taste, there are hints of manuka honey, sweet cacao, poached apples and golden sultanas.

Meanwhile, the 18-year-old whisky was matured in American white oak ex-Bourbon casks and enhanced by hand-selected Matusalem Sherry and Vintage 2005 Sherry casks.

With an ABV of 49.3%, the single malt carries an aroma of dark chocolate, salted caramel, antique leather and rich orange citrus. Flavours of rich cacao, blood orange, dark fruits, marzipan and moist ginger cake follow on the palate.

Glass added: “For 2023, we are pleased to present two whiskies which, at different ages, showcase nuances of The Dalmore’s signature notes – chocolate, orange and subtle spice.

“Vintage 2008 reveals naturally balanced shades and interplays of sweet cacao, fresh citrus and soft spices, and is a beautiful example of refined elegance from The Dalmore, captured at a moment in time. Vintage 2005 has quintessential dark chocolate notes that intertwine with rich citrus offering a flavour experience to be remembered and savoured.”

The Dalmore 2008 Vintage (US$225) and The Dalmore 2005 Vintage (US$490) will be available from November at select outlets worldwide.

The Highland single malt producer recently released a trio of Sherry cask-finished whiskies, including a 43-year-old, as part of a new collection.