Dalmore 40 Year Old 1966 Review

Brand: Dalmore
Age: 40 Years
ABV: 40%
Price: £12,999.95

First Impressions

Upon first glance, the Dalmore 40 Year Old 1966 is the epitome of luxury. It's a whisky that commands attention with its deep amber hue and the exquisite bottle that houses it. A sense of anticipation builds as you prepare to indulge in a dram that's been patiently maturing for four decades.

Flavour Profile

As you take the first sip, the Dalmore 40 opens up with a symphony of complexity. There's a rich tapestry of flavors to unravel – dark chocolate and hints of orange zest play off against a backdrop of aged oak and spices. It's like sipping on history; the whisky's long maturation period imparts a depth that's hard to find in younger spirits.

The balance between sweetness and the traditional Dalmore spiciness is masterful. It's a full-bodied experience, with a velvety mouthfeel that carries the flavors long into the finish. The whisky's age is evident in the best way possible, offering a refined and mellow profile that never feels overpowering.

Value for Money

Let's be honest: at nearly £13,000 a bottle, this isn't an everyday dram. It's an investment, a centerpiece for a collection, or perhaps the pinnacle of a very special celebration. In terms of value, it's more about the experience and rarity than the liquid volume in the bottle. For the connoisseur who can appreciate the craftsmanship and history, it may well be worth the price.

Comparisons

In the realm of similar whiskies, you might consider the Glenfiddich 40 Year Old or the Balvenie 40 Year Old. These are also prestigious drams with rich histories and complex flavor profiles. However, each has its own unique character shaped by the distillery's location, water source, and barrel selection.

Brand and Whisky Information

Dalmore is renowned for its dedication to creating luxurious and high-quality Scotch. Founded in 1839, the distillery has a storied past, and each bottle carries a piece of that legacy. The Dalmore 40 Year Old 1966 is a testament to their craft, representing a blend of the finest malt whiskies, meticulously selected by the master distiller.

Summary

The Dalmore 40 Year Old 1966 is a remarkable whisky that offers a window into the past. It's a dram to be savored slowly, with each sip revealing more of its intricate character. While the price point is not for the faint of heart, for those seeking an extraordinary whisky experience, it delivers in spades.

Rating: 4.5/5
Summary: A sublime and complex whisky with a rich tapestry of flavors, the Dalmore 40 Year Old 1966 is an exceptional dram that may justify its premium price for serious collectors and enthusiasts. It's an elegant showcase of the art of whisky-making, though its cost will be prohibitive for many.