The Dalmore Showcases A New 60 Year Old Scotch Whisky

Scotland’s The Dalmore distillery, known for having a portfolio of mostly higher end Scotch whisky, began its journey into the world of whisky in 1839, eventually coming under the Mackenzie Clan. Three generations of this family led whisky making operations there, and are said to have established “longstanding, deep-rooted alliances with suppliers to source exquisite casks.” Fast forward to today and, under master distiller Richard Paterson, who has been “the creative force behind the brand since 1970,” The Dalmore is celebrating 180 years with the unveiling of a rare, limited edition 60 year old single malt.

The new The Dalmore 60 Year Old, according to those behind it, was created from two twin ex-sherry casks, said to be the very last casks of the Mackenzie era, which had been lying in repose side by side at the Highland distillery. The spirit in them was first distilled on June 7th, 1951, with the whisky in each cask evolving in different directions. Paterson reunited them into what’s said to be a whisky “that is truly greater than the sum of its parts.”

“Over the course of the past 180 years,” said Paterson in a prepared statement, “The Dalmore has constantly strived for perfection, setting the standards for many other whisky makers today. The Dalmore 60 Year Old is a fitting tribute to the masterful talents of our distillers past and present, who have all helped to create an incredible body of work.

“For me personally, nurturing and caring for these two casks has been a true labour of love.”

As it stands now just three high end decanters of this whisky will ultimately go on sale, though no price point for this 41.7% ABV Scotch has been mentioned as of yet. In the meanwhile you’ll find some official tasting notes below for your consideration.

• Color: Deep mahogany, beaming copper and flashes of amber gold.
• Aroma: Generous and full, with a robust overture of aged oloroso sherry, treacle toffee, and liquorice stick, with hints of balsamic. A further layer of Old English marmalade, freshly ground Java coffee, dark bitter chocolate and molasses immediately follows on. Subtle whispers of glazed cherries, moist Napoleon cake, and sun kissed raisins linger enticingly in the background.
• Palate: The sherry wood has cast its magical charm to reveal enticing flavours of pecan pie, banana fig cake, crushed almonds, and hints of Chinotto oranges. As these enchanting flavours disperse, they are quickly replaced by juicy raisins drenched in Marsala, thick treacle, overripe pineapple and frangipane.
• Finish: Whispers of black treacle, ginger spice, and cocoa powder.