Malt Of The Moment - Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve
The Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve is a renowned single malt whisky from the Highlands of Scotland, crafted specifically to complement the flavours of a fine cigar. It is part of Dalmore's core range and stands out for its rich, luxurious profile.
Here are key details about the Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve:
1. Origins and Concept:
- Created for cigar pairing: The Dalmore Cigar Malt was designed with the cigar enthusiast in mind. It’s crafted to enhance the experience of smoking a cigar by balancing and complementing the flavours found in cigars.
- The Dalmore Distillery: Situated in the Scottish Highlands, Dalmore is one of the most respected whisky distilleries, established in 1839.
2. Whisky Composition:
- Cask Maturation:
- The whisky is matured in three different types of casks:
- American white oak ex-bourbon casks: Adds vanilla, honey, and oak flavours.
- Matusalem oloroso sherry casks from González Byass: Infuses rich, fruity notes like dried fruits, nuts, and spices.
- Cabernet Sauvignon barriques: From premier vineyards, contributing deeper red fruit and tannic notes.
- This combination of cask ageing creates a complex, layered flavour profile that pairs well with cigars.
3. Tasting Notes:
- Nose: Rich and inviting, offering aromas of cinnamon, vanilla, tropical fruits (mango, banana), chocolate, and coffee, with undertones of dried fruit like raisins and dates.
- Palate: Smooth, full-bodied, and luxurious. You’ll experience flavours of dark chocolate, cinnamon spice, orange zest, figs, toffee, and roasted coffee beans, with subtle hints of wine tannins.
- Finish: Long, warm, and rich, with notes of spice, fruit, and lingering oak and sherry sweetness.
4. Perfect Pairing:
- Cigars: As the name suggests, it is an ideal whisky to enjoy with a fine cigar. The rich flavours of the whisky complement the earthy, spicy, and leathery notes often found in premium cigars.
- Some popular cigars recommended to pair with Dalmore Cigar Malt include Cohiba Siglo, Partagás Serie D No. 4, and Montecristo No. 2.
5. Packaging:
- Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve comes in a distinctive bottle, featuring the brand’s iconic stag emblem, and is presented in a subtle designed box, which adds to its appeal as a premium gift for whisky and cigar lovers.
6. Reputation:
- The Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve is highly regarded by whisky connoisseurs and cigar aficionados alike for its balanced complexity and luxurious profile, which enhances both the enjoyment of the whisky and a fine cigar.
Overall, the Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve is a unique offering within Dalmore's range, delivering a rich and indulgent whisky experience specifically curated to elevate the cigar-smoking ritual.