Happy Wednesday everyone. Did you miss me?
Funds have been tight around the Augustine Manor, and thus I have been forced to slow down the Whiskey Wednesday posts. I've certainly missed them, and this week we're going with something a little more on the sweet side of my normally peat heavy and brine filled Islay preference in Scotch.
Closer to the heartland, the Highland Single Malt that goes by the name of Dalmore (insiders get the reference, eh?) and is aged a lovely 9 years in American White Oak ex-bourbon barrels, then split half and half; One remains in the white oak, and the other half is transferred to 30 year old Gonzalez Byass Matusalem oloroso sherry casks. After an additional 3 years, they are brought back together, fused into the delight known as Dalmore 12.
Dalmore 12
Highland Single Malt Scotch
Dalmore Distillery
40% / 80 proof
$59.99
Nose - right off the bat, sweet scents of vanilla and caramel hit, notes that are sweeter and more welcoming than even the mildest of bourbons. This sweetness ramps up and becomes slightly festive, with deep vesches of nutmeg and Christmas fruit cake.
Palette - The nutmeg shines through and comes smoothly, along with sweet berries and light, citrus and buttery flavors that are reminiscent again of a delicate holiday cake.
Finish - The heat fades subtly and leaves behind a warm plum and cinnamon sensation. The taste and effect both last, but not overwhelmingly so; This would be great on a cold winter evening, huddled close by a cozy hearth.
Thoughts - As I said throughout the tasting process, this is a whiskey that makes for an excellent desert, and certainly can find itself well in good company and holiday spirits. I, however, had a different take on it, and a very particular reason for choosing to adopt it as this "week's" whisky. Mostly because of the antlers, this past weekend marked the opening of early archery hunting season here in Utah, and the stag right on the front of the bottle was begging for me to group in up with some bows and arrows. I can imagine this as a welcome prize after a successful return home. The Dalmore 12 is perhaps, a little too sweet for my liking, and I am oft turned away by it's overly compassionate flavor, but as a desert or holiday toast, I can easily find a place for it.
I hope to post again soon. I've been holding on to this bottle for many months, and there are a few more I have that I haven't reviewed yet, and can easily think of fun and intricate set designs for them, so stay tuned and stay classy, Salt Lake.