This Scotch single malt whisky is widely regarded as a classic in the ex-sherry cask matured style. The 15 years old forms an important part of the domestic core range and begins life maturing in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels before a lengthy secondary maturation in ex-Oloroso sherry casks sourced from Jerez in southern Spain.
The Dalmore was founded in 1839 by Alexander Matheson and is currently owned by Whyte & Mackay, which is part of the larger Emperador Inc. group. The Dalmore distillery is located in the northern Highland town of Alness. There are two whisky distilleries in the town, with the lesser known Teaninich being the other. Whyte & Mackay own four single malt distilleries in total – the other three are Fettercairn in the Highlands, Jura in the Hebrides and Tamnavulin in Speyside – and the single grain distillery of Invergordon.
Dalmore has an annual production capacity of nine million litres – this has recently doubled following a major expansion project from 2022 to 2024. The brand has long been renowned for their use of sherry casks to mature their whiskies. The current core range reflects this and is vast. Age statements range from 12- to 25 years old and are complimented by the non-age statements Cigar Malt Reserve, King Alexander III and Port Cask Reserve. There is also an extensive travel retail range and several annual limited edition small batch releases.
The Dalmore 15 Years Old is bottled at 40% ABV and is available from specialist spirits and luxury retailers worldwide. A bottle should cost £110-£120.
Our Tasting Notes
The colour is dark amber and the nose is rich and fragrant with plenty of sweetness evident. There are immediate aromas of caramel and treacle, which are followed by dark dried fruits (think of raisins, sultanas, Cognac-soaked prunes and dates), distinct cereal grains, orange zest and hints of espresso coffee, cocoa powder and dusty wood spices.
On the palate, the richness and sweetness continues with the whisky feeling thick and oily in the mouth. The syrupy nature leads to plenty of caramel, treacle and dark dried fruits (the raisins and prunes especially) notes. These are backed up by further notes of fresh honeycomb, toffee, tangy orange zest and the coffee and cocoa from the nose. These last two combine with some gristy cereal grains to give a bittersweet feeling towards the end, where some wood spices (imagine cinnamon, nutmeg and sandalwood) come through nicely to give a savoury and umami vibe. There is also a distinct nutty quality that evolves – think of hazelnut and walnut – plus a hint of crisp red apple.
The finish is long and rich, which begins sweetly with the caramel and dried fruit notes (especially the candied orange peel) prominent. As these charcateristics fade the whisky becomes drier and woodier with the spices coming through well. A lovely warmth develops as a result with a hint of gingerbread right at the close.
What’s The Verdict?
The Dalmore 15 years old is a great example of a rich, bold, sweet sherry cask matured whisky. It would be great as an after dinner whisky, with dessert or have with a cigar. Definitely one to sip and savour. The sweetness and richness may be too much or heavy for some, as these characters are exaggerated by the sherry casks. The presence of the spicy and more bittersweet notes adds some balance. Deliciously full-on, luscious and luxurious in feel.
