Dalmore Cromartie

Dalmore Cromartie, NAS, 45 %

Time to test a Dalmore whisky. This particular Dalmore was a limited edition release a few years back (I don't know exactly when). It is called the Dalmore Cromartie.

Here is what Dalmore themselves say about this particular expression:

The Dalmore Cromartie is the third in a series of limited edition releases crafted by our Master Distiller, Richard Paterson, in homage to the Clan Mackenzie, owners of The Dalmore distillery for over a century. It celebrates the ancient lands of Cromartie, heartland of the clan, and home to Castle Leod, the clan’s historic seat where they still reside today. A substantial contribution from the sale of every bottle will go towards the matinenance of the clan estates at Cromartie.

Distilled in 1996 at 45% ABV, The Dalmore Cromartie was initially matured in American white oak casks before being transferred to Oloroso sherry casks from Gonzales Byass, in Jerez de la Frontera.

Nose (23/25): A whole lotta sherry going on! Delicately spicy, creamy caramel, dark fruits, leather, tobacco and a whiff of bicycle tires. After a while in the glass the nose really picks up - aristocratically! Lovely, lovely Christmas type spices. Brilliant!

Taste (21/25): Lots of dark fruits, caramel and oak. Surprisingly dry. Dark chocolate and leather.

Finish (20/25): Still quite dry. Cinnamon, dark chocolate, slightly burnt, homemade caramel and the mild bitterness of orange peel. It's quite heavy and chewy.

Balance (21/25): A relatively heavy, dessert whisky. Intriguing and a bit different.

Score (85/100)

Image from The Whisky Exchange.

Sláinte! - Thomas