The Dalmore Port Wood Reserve is a smooth, indulgent Highland single malt and one of the most approachable expressions in the distillery's Principal Collection. The Dalmore distillery, founded in 1839 on the shores of the Cromarty Firth in Alness, is one of Scotland's most prestigious Highland producers, renowned for its rich, full bodied style and its pioneering use of rare cask finishes under the long stewardship of master distiller Richard Paterson. This Port Wood Reserve showcases that artistry. The whisky is first matured in American white oak ex bourbon casks, which yield soft vanilla and honey notes, after which about half is transferred to aged tawny Port pipes from the celebrated W and J Graham's lodge in Portugal, while the remainder continues in American oak. The two parcels are then married back together to harmonize before bottling, deliberately retained at a generous 46.5 percent ABV to let the warm Port character and classic Dalmore richness shine. The result is a luxurious, complex single malt that pours a deep amber with ruby glints and opens with a nose of sweet red berries, Seville oranges, plummy fruits, and sticky toffee pudding. The palate brings nectarines, creamy caramel, roasted chestnuts, and Java coffee, while the finish lingers with rich plums, sultanas, blood oranges, and macerated cherries. Smooth enough to win over newcomers yet complex enough to reward seasoned drinkers, and presented in The Dalmore's elegant purple gift box bearing the iconic 12 point stag, it makes an outstanding gift or a refined addition to any whisky lover's collection.
ABV / Proof
| Brand |
The Dalmore |
| Distillery |
The Dalmore Distillery, Alness, Northern Highlands, Scotland |
| Producer |
Whyte & Mackay |
| Category |
Single Malt Scotch Whisky |
| Expression |
Port Wood Reserve |
| Age Statement |
No age statement |
| Mashbill |
100% malted barley (single malt) |
| Maturation |
American white oak ex bourbon casks; about half finished in aged tawny Port pipes from W and J Graham's, then married |
| Bottling |
Principal Collection; purple gift box |
| ABV |
46.5% |
| Proof |
93 |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
Scotland |
| Region |
Highland |
Tasting Notes
Color: Deep amber with ruby glints.
Nose: Sweet red berries, Seville oranges, plummy fruits, and sticky toffee pudding.
Palate: Nectarines, creamy caramel, roasted chestnuts, and Java coffee.
Finish: Rich plums, sultanas, Sanguinello blood oranges, and macerated cherries.
FAQ
How is it matured? First in American white oak ex bourbon casks, with about half then finished in aged tawny Port pipes from W and J Graham's in Portugal, before the parcels are married back together.
What proof is it? 93 proof, or 46.5 percent ABV, higher than most of the Dalmore core range.
Does it have an age statement? No. It is a no age statement expression from the Dalmore Principal Collection.
What does it taste like? Rich and fruit forward, with red berries, caramel, coffee, and a sweet, Port driven finish of plums and cherries.
Where is it from? The Dalmore distillery in Alness, in the Northern Highlands of Scotland.
Where can I buy The Dalmore Port Wood Reserve online? Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
