THE DALMORE CASK CURATION SERIES – THE PORT EDITION
On October 15th, 2024, we were among a select few invited to an exclusive and highly anticipated global release of The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Port Edition, hosted by Louis-Jérôme Barbosa-Doise, The Dalmore’s Senior Brand Ambassador, and Emma Coady, Single Malt Specialist for Canada, at Cask Whisky Vault at Club Versante.
“A trio of Single Cask Single Malts celebrating The Dalmore’s long-standing partnership with the finest winemakers of Portugal, Graham’s Port.”
The evening began with a tasting of Graham’s Single Harvest Tawny, setting the tone with exquisite selections shaped over decades by master winemakers and coopers. We sampled both the 1994 and 1997 vintages, each showcasing their own distinct, intricate layers of flavour. The rich, amber hues and deep notes of dried fruits and spice added an element of sophistication, perfectly preparing us for the presentation and tasting of The Port Edition.
Following the much-praised Sherry Edition last year, The Port Edition raises the bar, offering three distinct expressions, all primarily matured in ex-bourbon barrels, then finished for a minimum of 24 months in handcrafted Portuguese port “pipes” from Graham’s, one of the world’s premiere producers of port. As we mingled with fellow connoisseurs and collectors, Louis-Jérôme and Emma guided us through the nuances and complexities of these extraordinary spirits.
Representing a total of 100 years of aging, the youngest of the collection is a vibrant 27-year-old, aged in a tawny port pipe from 1997. A perfect entry point into the series, its warm flavours of roasted chestnuts and marzipan, accented by a delicate spice, are a true testament to the power of a well-seasoned barrel. Bottled at 49.3% ABV. Next is a 30-year-old, unveiling layers of brûléed blood orange and tangerine jam, a rich dessert dram that lingered on the palate with every sip. Bottled at 43.9% ABV.
But the true highlight is the 43-year-old expression, aged in a pipe that once held a 72-year-old port. This masterpiece is a symphony of flavours—plum, cedar, toffee—each note more exquisite than the last. Finished for 36 months, it showcases The Dalmore’s legendary craftsmanship, leaving us all in awe of its velvety body and unforgettable protracted finish. Bottled at 41.8% ABV.
The Dalmore Cask Curation Series – The Port Edition, comes in a teal green tube handcrafted in Tuscany by Italian luggage makers AB Florence. Each whisky itself is housed in the iconic Dalmore bottle adorned with a matching collar. Limited to only 150 sets released globally, the Port Edition is bound to become one of the most coveted additions for any serious whisky collector.
Only one set will be available in BC (C$60,000) – at BCLIQUOR’s 2024 Premium Spirit Release in November. BCLIQUOUR will host an exclusive event celebrating the unveiling of the Cask Curation Series Port Edition on November 7 from 2:00 pm to 4:00pm at the 39th & Cambie location (5555 Cambie Street, Vancouver).