Whisky Review/Tasting: Dalmore 12 Years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Northern Highlands, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky undergoes 9 years of maturation in ex-bourbon casks, after which it is divided into two parts. One part continues aging in ex-bourbon casks for a total of 12 years, while the other part is transferred to Matusalem Oloroso sherry butts for the remaining period.
Age Statement: 12 years.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky is presented in a bottle adorned with a 12-pointed stag emblem, symbolizing the Mackenzie clan heritage. The emblem is made of oxidized plastic for this variant, with more premium versions featuring a metal emblem. The bottle design is considered very suitable for gifting.

Balance of Flavors: The Dalmore 12 Years offers a balanced and complex flavor profile, with a harmonious blend of sherry, fruitiness, and aromatic spices.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its rich sherry influence and pronounced citrus notes, particularly orange. The whisky also exhibits a subtle sweetness, with vanilla hints, and evolves into a spicy and oaky taste with a long aftertaste of coffee or chocolate.
Comparison: Described as a bridge from a sherry bomb to a spicy whisky, it has a noticeable sherry influence but is not overwhelmingly so.

Anecdotes: The Dalmore Distillery's connection to the Mackenzie clan is highlighted, dating back to 1263 when an ancestor saved King Alexander III from a charging stag. This act awarded the clan the right to use the 12-pointed stag in their coat of arms, a symbol of royalty and honor, which is now prominently featured on Dalmore bottles.

Heritage: The distillery's rich heritage and connection to the Mackenzie clan play a significant role in its identity.
Production Influence: The Northern Highlands are noted for imparting a distinct citrus fruit character to their whiskies, attributed to the shared knowledge and practices among distilleries in the region rather than the local climate.

"A very nice introduction whisky to the Northern Highlands Scotch whiskies."
"It's really balanced, meaning that the taste, the nose, the aroma, the taste, and the aftertaste is quite on the same level."

Dalmore 12 Years is a single malt whisky from the Northern Highlands, aged for 12 years with a unique maturation process involving ex-bourbon and Matusalem Oloroso sherry casks.
It features a balanced flavor profile with a rich sherry influence, pronounced citrus notes, and a complex blend of sweetness, spiciness, and oakiness.
The whisky's heritage is closely tied to the Mackenzie clan, with the 12-pointed stag emblem symbolizing this connection.
Recommended as an excellent introduction to Northern Highlands Scotch whiskies, offering a balanced and complex experience.

For Beginners: An excellent introduction to Northern Highlands Scotch whiskies, offering a gentle yet complex flavor profile.
For Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring whiskies with a sherry influence will appreciate the balanced use of Matusalem Oloroso sherry casks.
For Citrus Flavor Lovers: Ideal for those who enjoy citrus-forward whiskies, with its notable orange and citrus notes.
For Gift Seekers: The bottle's design and heritage make it a suitable and impressive gift option.