Whisky Review/Tasting: Dalmore Port Vintage 2001

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Dalmore Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Aged for 15 years, with 13 years in ex-Bourbon casks followed by a 2-year finish in Tawny Port wine casks from W&J Grahams.
Age Statement: 15 years.
Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the packaging and presentation are noted, including a heavy case and a typical shaped Dalmore bottle adorned with a silver shining plastic deer head.
Bottle Design: Described as resembling a perfume bottle, with a unique and heavy presentation case.

Balance of Flavors: A rich and complex balance of exotic fruits, spices, and sweetness, with a notable absence of sharpness despite the low ABV (40%).
Unique Characteristics: The finishing in Tawny Port wine casks imparts distinctive notes of caramelized peaches, Morello cherries, Turkish delight, figs, and a subtle coffee note, alongside the traditional Dalmore profile of exotic spices and fruits.
Comparison: Reminiscent of the 15-year-old Dalmore Sherry finished whisky, yet more intense and full, with a unique port wine influence.

Richard Patterson's 50th Anniversary: The whisky was created by Richard Patterson, the master blender of Dalmore, to celebrate his 50th anniversary in the whisky industry, as part of a series of three bottles.
Historical Anecdote: The Dalmore's deer head symbol originates from a 1263 event where a Mackenzie clan member saved King Alexander III from a stag, leading to the royal permission to use the deer head symbol, which became part of the distillery's branding when the Mackenzies purchased Dalmore in 1876.

Portuguese Connection: The Tawny Port wine casks come from W&J Grahams, highlighting a historical and geographical connection through Andrew James Symington, a figure with deep roots in both Scotland and the Portuguese port wine industry.

"This whisky is one of my favorites... finishing in Tawny Port is a whisky I like to a 99."
"A wonderful, massive, intense, which reminds me a little bit to the 15-year-old Dalmore, which is a sherry one, sherry finished one, but it's extremely intense and full and more affordable than this one."

Dalmore Port Vintage 2001 is a 15-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, finished in Tawny Port wine casks.
It features a rich flavor profile with exotic fruits, spices, and a distinctive sweetness influenced by the port cask finish.
The whisky celebrates Richard Patterson's 50th anniversary in the industry and incorporates historical and cultural elements, including the storied deer head symbol and a connection to the Portuguese port wine tradition.
Expert opinions highlight the whisky's intensity, complexity, and unique character compared to other Dalmore expressions.

For the Whisky Connoisseur: The complex flavor profile and unique maturation process make this an appealing choice for experienced whisky drinkers looking for something distinctive.
For the History and Culture Enthusiast: The rich historical and cultural narratives tied to the whisky offer an added layer of appreciation.
For the Collector: Given its limited availability and special packaging, collectors might find this release particularly desirable.
For the Port Wine Lovers: Those with an affinity for port wine may enjoy the unique influence of the Tawny Port casks on the whisky's flavor profile.