The 2024 Edition of Dalmore’s Luminary series was released earlier this year. It consists of just a few bottles of an unattainable 49-year-old, but also a more affordable option (relatively speaking). That would be the Dalmore 16 Years Luminary No.2, which I’ll be reviewing today.
For information on the philosophy behind the Dalmore Luminary project, I’ll gladly refer to other websites that have published more in-depth articles, such as Club Oenologique and Whisky Magazine. What I personally care about are details about the Dalmore 16 Years Luminary No.2.
Knowing that it’s at least 16-years of age is not always guaranteed with premium releases like this one, so we’re off to a good start. The whisky matured in bourbon casks initially, and was finished in a mix of Graham’s tawny port pipes and Apóstoles sherry casks (a brand from Gonzalez Byass). Most interestingly, a minuscule amount of peated Dalmore from refill bourbon casks was added as well: 0.5 per cent from a parcel of vintage 2000 peated liquid.
Now that’s the kind of tidbit that excites me. And the kind of transparency that I’d love to see a whole lot more of. Well done Dalmore.
Dalmore 16 Years Luminary No.2 (48.6%, OB, 2024 Edition)
Nose: Pleasant but quite closed, to be honest. Let’s say I’ve nosed more expressive malts. Hints of liquorice root accompanied by blackcurrant jam, dried apricots and chalk, but also some Cavendish & Harvey’s mixed fruit drops. Boy, did I love those as a kid. There’s a sliver of leather too. And then finally a soft burnished feel teetering on sulphur.
Taste: The port is much more noticeable. It has a slightly vinous mouthfeel. Slivers of figs, dates, blackberries and milk chocolate, but also gentle baking spices. Then rum-soaked raisins as well, followed by a touch of burnt toast and just a touch of gunpowder.
Finish: Medium length. Lingering spices, some fennel and dark cacao.
