Dalwhinnie 2005 Distillers Edition (Bottled 2020)
Single Malt
Dalwhinnie // Highlands, Scotland
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joescotch
Reviewed February 3, 2024The underlying notes of vanilla, honey, nuts, and light fruits are very similar to the Dalwhinnie 15. But there are a few key differences. First, smoke is noticably more subtle than the 15 (where it’s already pretty subdued). On the 2005 DE, the smoke is barely even perceptible on the nose. It really only shows up on the finish, and even that is more dominated by the sweet notes. There’s also some much more vibrant fruit across the palate, which is almost certainly due to the time spent in Oloroso casks. Lastly, there’s a notable sweetness on the nose that’s almost candy-like. I wouldn’t say it persists, but it definitely pops on the first whiff. I will say I can’t come to a clear conclusion on which I like more, the DE or the 15. I think it really just comes down to how much smoke I’m in the mood for.90.0 USD per Bottle -
jimmyjam312
Reviewed August 9, 2023 (edited August 10, 2023)Review #035: Tasted after: first up Appearance (no score): • Dark gold color • Swirling reveals a thin line sticking to the side of the glass, legs begin to form moderately quickly Nose: 16/20 • Smells very sweet, dominated by honey and grape juice, with some subtle nutty and floral scents in background Palate: 41/50 • Nice almost milky mouthfeel • Honey continues to be the prominent theme, but the flavor is less sweet and more reminiscent of mead, I also get subtle tastes of vanilla, grain cereal, and almonds Finish: 25/30 • Medium length, a nice medium chili pepper heat gets things started, interestingly it blends well with a sweet blood orange citrus that soon develops and then gradually grows mildly salty, after the pepper heat fades the lingering taste in my mouth is that of molasses Total: 82/100 • Scoring rubric 80-84: Quite good, very enjoyable to drink, but doesn’t wow me, still it may make regular appearances in my collection. 4.25 stars. Final thoughts: • Didn’t notice much change with a few drops of water, maybe just a slight increase to the mild alcohol burn • It’s been awhile since I cracked this bottle and I forgot what an enjoyable easy sipper this is, it’s not complex and awe inspiring, but very few Diageo core releases are, it’s just generally good and sometimes that’s the type of bottle I want to reach for • Many people talk about a hint of smoke on the palate, but I’ve never once been able to detect any smoke or char at any stage of a tasting when I’ve poured from this bottle • Bought this bottle on sale, not sure it’s worth the $90 MSRP, but I may end up buying another anyway once this one is kicked as long as it doesn’t go north of that Price: $76 Would recommend: yes Would buy: yes76.0 USD per Bottle
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