The Dalmore 12 Year Old is initially matured for 9 years in ex-bourbon casks. For the remaining 3 years, it is divided in two, with half maturing in Oloroso sherry butts, the remainder continuing maturation in bourbon casks, before finally remarrying the two halves for bottling. On the nose, aromas of citrus fruit and chocolate with fragrant notes of aromatic spices. On the palate, the sherry finishing makes itself known as notes of oloroso sherry come through alongside more citrus and hints of vanilla. Chocolate and roasted coffee lingers in the finish. The Dalmore 12 Year Old is the original masterpiece of the distillery's owner Andrew Mackenzie in 1867, distinguishing itself far beyond most other whiskies of the time, when many were typically matured for 6 years, at most. It remains as exceptional today as it was then. |