Dalmore Port Wood Reserve Review

Dalmore Port Wood Reserve is a multi award winning, premium Single Malt, which is apportioned between American white oak ex-bourbon casks, and aged Tawny Port pipes from W & J Graham’s vineyard in Portugal, before being brought back together. This dual maturation imbues the whisky with a unique depth of character.

This really is a special liquid – not because it arrives in the iconic and timeless Dalmore bottle, nor it’s beautiful deep bronze colour, but remove the cork, take a deep whiff and find out for yourself.

On the nose: You’ll immediately pick up on the bouquet of ripe red fruits, like cherry and raspberry, Saville oranges, and hints of dark chocolate and caramel. Subtle whispers of oak and spice linger in the background, adding complexity to the enticing aroma.

On the palate: The whisky’s velvety smoothness coats the palate, showcasing the influence of the port cask. A delicious combo of fruity sweetness unfolds, balanced by gentle spiciness. Ripe berries, plum, and figs intertwine with notes of toffee, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This harmonious blend evolves with each sip, leaving a luxurious and full-bodied mouthfeel. A lingering warmth envelops the senses, creating an impression you’ll fully embrace.

The Finish: The finish is long and satisfying. The sweetness of the port wood weaves with subtle hints of oak and spice, creating a beautifully balanced aftertaste that begs for another sip. Rich plums, sultanas, blood oranges and macerated cherries.

To sum up then, Dalmore Port Wood Reserve is a masterful expression of the distiller’s art. It offers a very unique journey of flavour that captivates the senses from the first whiff to the lingering finish. The rich aroma, exquisite taste, and long finish stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of Dalmore Distillery. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a sophisticated cocktail, Dalmore Port Wood Reserve elevates any occasion and leaves a lasting impression on discerning whisky enthusiasts.

Master Of Malt £75

There’s more…

Whilst we’re on a Dalmore tip, the brand has announced the second chapter of The Dalmore Luminary Series, curated in partnership with V&A Dundee. This series seeks to bring together luminaries from the worlds of whisky and architectural design.

The 2024 Edition of the series has been created by Melodie Leung, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, who designed the sculptural housing for the whisky, and Gregg Glass, Master Whisky Maker at The Dalmore, and Master Distiller Richard Paterson OBE. Together they have created The Dalmore Luminary – The Rare – 2024 Edition which will be offered at auction with all proceeds donated to Scotland’s design museum, V&A Dundee, and The Dalmore Luminary – The Collectible – 2024 Edition will be available at leading luxury and specialist retailers globally.

The Rare comprises of a 49 Year Old Highland Single Malt whisky, matured in American White Oak ex-Bourbon casks and finished in a blend of Port Colheita 1963, Apostoles sherry, select Bourbon and a unique 1951/Virgin Oak hybrid cask. The whisky offers layers of intense vanilla, dark berry fruit and cacao aromas, with a palate of freshly roasted chestnuts, blackcurrant, Doyenne pears and soft patisserie spices leading to a subtle, sweet smoke finish. Leung and her team at Zaha Hadid Architects have created a dynamic, glass amber sculpture in which to house the whisky.

The Collectible is a 16 Year Old Highland Single Malt whisky, matured in Bourbon casks and finished in a blend of Graham’s Tawny Port pipes and Apostoles sherry casks, with a small portion in peated, hand-selected, ex-refill Bourbon casks, housed in a presentation case that echoes the glowing, swirling design of The Rare sculpture. 20,000 sets will be available at select luxury and specialist retailers worldwide as well as global travel retail, with an RRP of £275.