Whisky Review – Dalwhinne 15 y/o
It’s not often that we find ourselves trying an age-statement whisky. With our love for experimental finishes and maturations, we often find ourselves firmly in the NAS whisky department. With that being said, having recently tried the Dalwhinnie Winter’s Gold it felt only fair to give the 15 y/o a whirl!
Dalwhinnie Distillery …
Owned by Diageo, Dalwhinnie Distillery was built in 1897 in the Highland village of the same name. It is the highest distillery in Scotland with a visitors centre, set in beautiful mountain scenary. The site was originally chosen due to its access to Lochan-Doire-Uaine to provide spring water, and the ample peat in surrounding bogs.
As with many older-distilleries, it has a broken and complicated history. Originally name Strathspey, before being renamed to Dalwhinnie in 1898. A fire in 1934 caused a lengthy four year closure, with further closures to happen in later years. In 1989 the Dalwhinnie 15 y/o expression becomes one of the Six Classic Malts of Scotland.
Tasting Notes …
Dalwhinnie 15 y/o – 43% ABV
A Highland single-malt from one of the highest distilleries in Scotland, the Dalwhinnie 15 y/o makes up one of the Six Classic Malts of Scotland.
Nose: custard, floral, blossom, toffee sauce, fruit salad sweets, orchard fruits
Palate: baklava, honey cereal, malt biscuits, gentle smoke
Finish: smooth, long, mixed nuts and creamy custard
It is safe to say that this dram did not disappoint. It looked fantastic in the glass, honey coloured and oily! It drew us in immediately, with waves of custard, blossom, and sweet pudding sauce rushing from the bottle the moment we cracked the lid open!
A smooth, creamy and nutty dram. The whispers of smoke are matched with plenty of light fruit salad, apple and honey with a touch of baklava. We can completely understand why this was selected as part of the Six Classic Malts of Scotland. A great dram to end the evening with, and one we can see pairing well with a chocolate brownie!
Do you pair your whiskies with food? What is your favourite combination? Let us know in the comments below!
The Dram Duo 