The Dalmore Just Dropped Two Limited-Edition Whiskies—and One's Ideal for Sherry Fans

When November arrives, I tend to get a bit lazy. The short days mean less time for outdoor activities, so I rely on books and video games to fill my free time.

Meanwhile, the whisky makers at The Dalmore in Alness, Scotland, are busier than ever. They roam the aisles of their warehouses, tastebuds seeking exceptional whisky with flavors that only awaken this time of year.

Eventually, they settle on a handful of their rarest casks to create the annual Select Edition Collection, currently in its fourth year.

For 2024's run, The Dalmore announced two Scotch whiskies: 15-Year-Old, Select Edition 2009 and 18-Year-Old, Select Edition 2006.

“We are pleased to present two whiskies which, at different ages, showcase nuances of The Dalmore’s signature notes—rich desserts," Gregg Glass, The Dalmore's master whisky maker, said in a press release.

The younger of the two, the 2009 Select Edition, aged in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels before finishing in a combination of Matusalem sherry casks and Tawny port casks. The 2006 Select Edition also began in ex-bourbon barrels, but instead matured in a combination of Matusalem and Amoroso sherry casks. The former features an ABV of 48.9 percent, the latter 47.2 percent. Both were non-chill filtered.

To my nose, the 15-year-old whisky smelled of stone fruit, pepper, and honey. On the palate, I tasted cherries, figs, and chocolate. The finish burned slightly, coated my mouth, and left remnants of oak, ginger, and nuts. It was really tasty, but at 47.2 percent ABV, I found myself wanting a tad more complexity.

On the nose of the 18-year, I whiffed a wave of sherry with hints of butterscotch and honey. Upon the first sip I tasted caramel, licorice, citrus fruits, and biscuits on the palate before a heavily sherried finish outweighed weaker notes like spice and clove. I enjoyed the silky, buttery mouthfeel, but ultimately, sherry influence defines this whisky.

As you might expect these rare whiskies cost a pretty penny with the The Dalmore 2009 Select Edition selling for $225 and The Dalmore 2006 Select Edition retailing at $500.

If you love sherried Scotch or know someone who does, grab these limited-edition bottles while they’re still on the shelves.

Related: I've Tried Hundreds of Scotches. This Classic Bottle Is Perfect for Fall Weather