dalmore 12yo sherry cask select

Dalmore 12 Years Sherry Cask Select (2020)

When Dalmore announced their 12-year-old Sherry Cask Select, I figured it was simply a new version of the standard Dalmore 12-year-old. Apparently I was misstaken. Because while they both are part of the distillery’s so-called Principal Collection, this latest release has received a somewhat different treatment from master blender Richard Paterson.

The Dalmore 12 Years Sherry Cask Select spent its first decade in regular ex-bourbon casks made from American white oak. Dalmore then collaborated with three well-known cooperages from Andalucia—Tevasa, Vasyma and Paez. A different blend of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry was created for each of the coopers before seasoning the European and American oak casks. Those casks were used for a finish of up to three years.

That’s pretty much what the press release says. A shorter explanation would be that this Dalmore was finished in ex-Oloroso and ex-Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. That’s a decent interpretation, right?

Dalmore 12 Years Sherry Cask Select (43%, OB, 2020)

Nose: Pretty richly sherried with some clear dry Oloroso notes, but also more sour, aceto balsamico notes that I associate with Pedro Ximènez sherry. Hints of fudge and toffee accompanied by orange zest and rum raisins. Finally some hessian. We’re off to a good start.
Taste: The mouthfeel is a bit thin, but flavourwise we’re in good territory. Think chocolate truffles and a warming spiciness with cinnamon and cloves. I find a bit of orange liqueur in the background as well. Also, there’s a touch of eucalyptus.
Finish: Cappuccino, fudge and oranges. Short to medium in length.

Score: 84

A nice showing from Dalmore. It lacks a bit of oomph overall but makes up for it with a rather rich array of aromas and flavours.

Sample provided by Whyte & Mackay

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