The Dalmore, founded in 1839, is a Highlands Scotch producer. The distillery is in northwest Scotland, a little less than 20 miles due north from Inverness. About 12 miles to The Dalmore’s west is Loch Morie, which has always supplied the distillery’s water.

I didn’t visit The Dalmore on my recent distillery trek in Scotland. I did get to try The Dalmore King Alexander III single-malt scotch this month though. It’s a remarkable Scotch, all the more so considering it doesn’t have an age designation (let alone one of 18+ years).

After distillation, whisky is aged for years in oak. There, it mellows, picks up color and takes on flavors from the wood. Some whiskies are “finished” with a short stint in a different type of barrel, often one previously used for bourbon, port or sherry.

These barrels still hold character from the previous liquid. So the finishing process gives the whisky distinctive kisses of flavor and, sometimes, color. Most whiskeys getting this treatment are finished in just one or two different barrels.

The Dalmore King Alexander III is the only single malt Scotch finished in six different barrels: bourbon casks, Matusalem oloroso sherry butts, Madeira barrels, Marsala casks, Port pipes and Cabernet Sauvignon wine barriques. This lends King Alexander III both a special smoothness and vast, nuanced complexity.

Tasting The Dalmore King Alexander III

In the glass, you’ll notice the deep, amber color with copper highlights. It’s richer in color than most whiskies. The nose has excellent intensity, but doesn’t shout. This makes it easier to appreciate the complexity and discern individual voices in the chorus, one-by-one. The nose opens with slight smokiness and wheat bread then gradually reveals cinnamon, allspice, light caramel, raspberry, baked green and yellow apples, black tea, wood, pear and more. The question is whether you’re patient enough to wait for more, or you succumb to temptation and drink it down.

Served neat, King Alexander III has medium+ body in the mouth and is smooth, balanced and effortless from attack through the very long finish. Flavors include wheat bread, burnt caramel, apple, pear and cinnamon. Adding a few drops of water increases the viscosity, enhances smoothness and emphasizes the fruit while opening up new flavors: heather, cream, cocoa, attractive wood notes, and brown sugar.

Luxury spirits, such as The Dalmore King Alexander III make great gifts. The presentation is impressive. More importantly, luxury spirits taste great and, unlike wine, a single bottle can enjoyed on many occasions, perhaps over a few years. Your friend will think of you fondly every time.

Very Highly Recommended (93 points). 40% alcohol. $230

Stay tuned for articles about my Scotland trip.

Copyright Fred Swan 2016. Photo courtesy of The Dalmore. All rights reserved.