Category Archives: Dalwhinnie

Whisky: Dalwhinnie 15, 43% ABV, 75cl
R750 ≈ £65.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this one.  I see it in the stores all the time but its more expensive than other malts in the similar age range, and I haven’t heard much about. Also, as it is one of the Classic Malts representing the Highland region of Scotland, I didn’t think it would have much to offer. Not sure why it is so expensive here, online UK retailers are offering it at half the price.

Nose: Thick sweetness, like honey, and some soft spices. A hint of peaty phenols in the background? I like the freshness of this nose, hard to elaborate on but it’s… fresh? I was hoping that with more time it would open up further as I get the sense there is something more, but after 10 minutes no change.

Taste: The honey is more evident now. There is also heather happening.  Quite smooth but with a light mouthfeel which I wouldn’t expect from a 15yo and don’t particularly like. Spice emerges as does the cut/dry grass flavours I’ve tasted commonly on Lowland malts.

Finish: A medium to long finish with lots of spice that builds and builds. A good dose of pepper. I found it ends with a touch of bitterness which is an unfortunate ending to a good spicey finish.

My Score: 78/100

I definitely got much more than I expected, but not all of it was good. This is a dram with some strong points, but with some weaker aspects as well in my opinion. Enjoyable for one dram at a time, but not anymore than that.

Scores: MJ = 76/100, JM 09 = 95/100, MM = 72/100