Dalmore 18 Year

The Christmas weekend begins and I will start it with this 18 year provided by @LeeEvolved some time ago. My recent sampling’s of Dalmore, for the most part, have been underwhelming; especially with the overwhelming price. I do look forward to this, however. This is not a scotch that one has the good fortune of tasting. The color is rich amber. Nosing in the stemmed Dalmore copita glass that was given out to all at a tasting I previously mentioned. After a good amount of time, rich fruits and nuts make to core of the nose. Tangerine and caramel initially arrive paving the way for more aromas. Balanced sherry notes of plumbs, raisins, pecans all with cinnamon spice sprinkled throughout. Creamy chocolate and orchard fruits emerge in due time. Traces of oak are faint and add a nice wrapper for these aromas. A busy nose that could be inhaled all day. The body is lightweight which throws you off because the nose is so rich. An oaky, spicy arrival on the palate. Cinnamon, almonds, raisins, oranges with a touch of sweetness: Vanilla, caramel and sugar glazing. The sweetness becomes stronger over time. The palate does not last or hold for any good length. It takes several sips and swooshes to extract the flavors because of the semi short palate lifespan. The finish is woody and drying with some sherry and vanilla which last for a fair length. A slight orange bitterness at the far end of the finish and a touch of cognac. As with a Dalmore, the nose is rich, vivid and everlasting. The palate fails to deliver the promise of the nose but what does come through is quite well and nicely balanced. Soft and somewhat delicate. If palate could only reach deeper and be more viscous, this could be mind blowing. Time and patience are rewarded with this scotch. This one took me a good hour plus to work the nose and palate. Now, would I pay the near $200 for this? Most certainly no. This, though, is the favorite of all the Dalmore’s I have tasted and am fortunate to had the time to enjoy. Thanks again @LeeEvolved. [Tasted: 12/21/18][87/100]

I found this Dalmore to be a step aside from the bulk of the Dalmore range. There are citrus notes but more prevalent are the rich and dark flavours, I personally noted Dark Chocolate and Coffee with a touch of Cinnamon. For me the citrus notes were more a part of the aroma and finish and expressed as more an apricot than anything else. Overall, I enjoyed it and believe it is worth the try!

Nez sucré qui sent le vieux tonneau, on sent son âge rien qu'au nez. En bouche, c'est rond et assez léger, on ne sent pas tellement le vieillissement. Notes de caramel. La finale est très légère, presque inexistante en fond de bouche. Dommage.