I have titled this one “The one that didn’t get away” for a few reasons. During my whiskey journey there have been few that have captured my imagination more than The Dalmore 12 Year. It’s not the best scotch I have added to my collection, but does hold a special place.
The Dalmore 12 Year – 40% ABV
It starts with the rich iconic silver badge and bottle shape.
I remember when I first started buying scotch, this one was the special bottle I would get for a birthday, or Christmas gift, or start of summer dram, etc. Its a little more expensive, although certainly not the top shelf or behind lock and key sort.
But when I think of The Dalmore, I think of refinement, of stature. When I finally purchased my first Dalmore, I had the same feeling as buying my first car. It felt like I achieved something in my whiskey journey. Like I had made it. It sits a little higher off to the side of some of the other scotches I have owned, maybe a little snobbish, but certainly unapologetic about it.
The liquid is that unmistakable Oloroso Sherry colour.
It’s refined, light fruity on the nose, really light actually. Defined by citrus, orange and a little hint of vanilla. It finishes well with coffee, the same way that coffee has some citrus notes once the heat hits it.
It’s a nice dram. The finish isn’t long, but the flavours seem to linger as an after thought. One that you would enjoy with a nice cigar or after an expensive steakhouse dinner. It’s not rare, but it makes an event feel a little more special.
For those of you that are not dessert people, pour yourself a dram after a nice meal and see where your thoughts take you.