The Dalmore has unveiled two new limited-edition whiskies – Dalmore Vintage 2005 and Dalmore Vintage 2008 – which form the third release in the distiller’s Vintage Collection.

Created by master whisky maker Gregg Glass and master distiller Richard Paterson OBE, the whiskies selected to form the vintage collection are dictated by the casks themselves during an annual cask inspection week. The tradition dates back more than 50 years and optimally occurs in November, with the casks at rest in the cooler temperatures after the warmth of summer.

The Dalmore Vintage 2008 has been matured in American white oak ex-bourbon casks and enhanced by hand-selected Matuslaem sherry and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, bottled at 45.8% ABV. The producers have described it as having aromas of milk chocolate, caramel and mandarin, with notes of manuka honey, sweet cacao and poached apples on the palate.

The Dalmore Vintage 2005, meanwhile, has been matured in American white oak ex-bourbon casks and enhanced by hand-selected Matusalem sherry and Vintage 2005 sherry casks, bottled at 49.3%. The producers have described the expression as having aromas of dark chocolate and salted caramel, with notes of rich cacao, blood orange and marzipan on the palate among others.

Commenting on the new releases, Glass said: “The annual cask inspection which ultimately leads to the creation of each years Vintage Collection is a true highlight of working on The Dalmore. We can never know what time and nature has given to these whiskies, until we take stock each November and see what magic has unfolded in the year. Richard and I select casks which we feel contain whiskies that exemplify The Dalmore’s quality and style, with the best of the best, becoming our Limited-Edition Vintages.

“For 2023, we are pleased to present two whiskies which, at different ages, showcase nuances of The Dalmore’s signature notes – chocolate, orange, and subtle spice. Vintage 2008 reveals naturally balanced shades and interplays of sweet cacao, fresh citrus and soft spices, and is a beautiful example of refined elegance from The Dalmore, captured at a moment in time. Vintage 2005 has quintessential dark chocolate notes which intertwine with rich citrus offering a flavour experience to be remembered and savoured.”