Whisky Review/Tasting: Dalmore Port Vintage 1996

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Dalmore Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Initially matured in ex-bourbon casks for 18 years, followed by a finishing period in Kolheiter casks previously used for port wine for three years, making it a 20-year-old whisky. These casks were part of a Solera system for 30 years, contributing to the whisky's unique flavor profile.
Age Statement: 20 years.
ABV: 45%.
Color: More brownish compared to the reddish tone of other vintages.
Bottle Design: Described as resembling perfume bottles, indicating a unique and possibly ornate design.

Aroma: Black currants, rich coffee beans, praline chocolate, gingerbread.
Palate: Damson plums, passion fruit, with a notable presence of caramel and coffee notes, hinting at a complex and aromatic profile.
Finish: Caramelized pineapple, Sanguinello blood oranges, marzipan, with a late emergence of blood orange flavors that are mouthwatering.
Balance of Flavors: The whisky showcases a harmonious blend of fruitiness from the port wine casks and the deeper, richer tones from the coffee and caramel notes, resulting in a complex and full aroma.

Interesting Anecdotes: The host, Horst Luening, mentions his visit to a sherry bodega in Jerez, providing insight into the aging process of casks used in the Solera system, which indirectly contributes to the flavor profile of this Dalmore vintage.
Production Insights: The detailed explanation of how the port wine casks influence the whisky, by imparting fruitiness while the tannins are removed by the port wine, offers a fascinating look into the maturation process.

The use of Kolheiter casks from a Solera system adds a layer of historical and geographical significance, connecting the whisky to traditional wine-making practices in Jerez, Spain.

Horst Luening describes the whisky as having a "wonderful complex full aroma" and notes the emergence of blood orange flavors as "extremely" mouthwatering, highlighting the unique and appealing aspects of this vintage.
The mention of the whisky's resemblance to perfume bottles in design suggests a level of elegance and sophistication.

The Dalmore Port Vintage 1996 is a 20-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in ex-bourbon and Kolheiter casks, offering a complex flavor profile with notes of fruit, coffee, and caramel.
The finishing in port wine casks contributes to its unique aroma and taste, with a more brownish color compared to other vintages.
The whisky's production process and the use of specific casks add historical and cultural depth, connecting it to traditional practices in Jerez, Spain.
Expert opinions highlight the whisky's complexity, elegance, and the delightful emergence of blood orange flavors.

Whisky Connoisseurs: Individuals with a deep appreciation for complex flavor profiles and unique maturation processes will find this vintage intriguing.
Collectors: The unique bottle design and the rarity of the whisky, given its price and limited availability, make it an attractive addition to any collection.
Fans of Port Wine Influenced Whiskies: Those who enjoy the fruitiness and richness that port casks impart to whisky will likely appreciate this Dalmore vintage.