The Dalmore Recruits Port and Sherry Casks for Latest Select Edition Scotch Whiskies

(Photo: The Dalmore)

Last week, The Dalmore unveiled a pair of scotch whiskies just in time for the holidays in rich, sherry-soaked form.

The first, Select Edition 2009, boasts an age statement of 15 years. The expression was reportedly matured in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels before finishing in Mautselum sherry and Graham’s 10-year-old tawny port casks. Master whisky maker Greg Glass says to expect sweet malt, soft fruit and citrus flavors on the palate followed by hints of vanilla, caramel and gentle gingerbread.

The 2009 Select Edition clocks in at an ABV of 48.9% and is available worldwide at a suggested price of $224.99.

Those searching for an extra few years in the barrel can opt for Select Edition 2006. This one was also aged in ex-bourbon barrels, though the finishing process was relegated to a mix of Matuselum and Amoroso sherry casks in lieu of tawny port. The expression is said to balance aromas of raisins, roasted figs and cedar wood with punchy flavors of licorice, cacao, bergamot and blood orange.

At 47.2% ABV, the 2006 Select Edition sits a few notches lower than the alcohol content of its younger sibling. At $499.99, however, its price is more than doubled.

This year’s releases are the fourth batch in the brand’s annual Limited Select Edition collection. Scotches chosen for bottling are typically distilled in the mid-2000s before finishing in fortified wine casks, typically Matusalem or Pedro Ximenez sherry.

“Each November, The Dalmore whisky makers spend countless hours in their historic warehouses on the banks of the Cromarty Firth, reacquainting themselves with their rare casks that have been quietly, patiently maturing. November is the optimum time for this process to take place, with the casks at rest in the cooler temperatures after the warm summer months, and their flavours alive and true,” the brand remarked in a news release.

If you’re interested in picking up the release, find The Dalmore’s website here.

The Dalmore 2006 Select Edition Tasting Notes, Per the Brand

Nose: Enticing notes of Sherry-soaked raisins, roasted figs, cedarwood, and honey

Taste: Dark fruit intertwines with licorice and cacao, before developing notes of bergamot and blood orange

Finish: Antique Sherry notes linger on the palate, expressing rich berries, licorice, cassia bark, and dark chocolate

The Dalmore 2009 Select Edition Tasting Notes, Per the Brand

Nose: Whispers of Manuka honey, dark plum and cracked black pepper, and hints of clove

Taste: Morello cherries and dates, elevated with notes of candied Seville orange, fresh figs and light cacao

Finish: Rich plum complemented by moist ginger cake, roast chestnut, and soft wood spice