Here’s a weirdo. Dalmore, in my mind, means two things: Heavy sherry, and orange peel notes. This independently-bottled Dalmore from The Exclusive Malts was distilled in 2000 as cask #6952 and bottled in 2013 at 53.5% ABV. And it’s peated. What?!
It’s a vatting of malts between the ages of 10 and 15 (probably 12-14 on average), 40% of which is matured in first-fill American oak ex-bourbon casks, and 60% in first-fill oloroso sherry butts. The vatting is married in ex-sherry for 6 months and bottled at 40% ABV (boo). To be frank, I didn’t think it stood up to either of its siblings, although I’m sure it’s lovely with a cigar. Regardless, this review is based on my tasting it in between the 12 and 15.
This is a very fine example of a spicy, supple sherried Highlander with the added bonus of Dalmore’s signature orange peel. At $56, this is a quality sherried Highland malt for a great price. I’d even say it’s worthwhile around $65.
This is a guest post from Denis from CigarInspector.com. He knows far more than I do about pairing cigars (and cigars in general), and does justice to the topic.
If I were weathering a snowstorm at the South Pole, I’d sure like to have several cases of this stashed under my cabin. Or better yet, under my bed! Eminently Highlander, with loads of honey and sticky-sweet candied fruits, a touch of smoke, a hint of rubber, and lots of flavor.
It seems to me that The Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve has all the boxes ticked. A robust, ultra smooth and luxurious malt that can complement any quality cigar.
Major sherry with citrus overtones. Orange peel and orange liqueur notes. Overall impression is of candied orange mixed with heavy sherry.
