Dalmore 12 vs Macallan 12

When it comes to single malt whisky, few brands are as highly regarded as Dalmore and Macallan.

Both whiskies have a distinct flavor profile and are aged for 12 years, making them a popular choice for those looking for a high-quality single malt. In this article, we will compare Dalmore 12 vs Macallan 12 and explore the differences between the two.

Understanding single malt whisky is essential to appreciate the differences between Dalmore 12 and Macallan 12. Single malt whisky is made from malted barley, water, and yeast, and is distilled in copper pot stills.

The maturation process is a crucial factor in the flavor of the whisky. The whisky is aged in oak barrels, which can be made from a variety of woods, including bourbon, sherry, and wine casks. The type of wood used and the time spent in the barrel can significantly impact the flavor of the whisky.

Both Dalmore 12 and Macallan 12 are single malt whiskies, but they have distinct differences in their origins and history. Dalmore is a Highland whisky that has been produced since 1839, while Macallan is a Speyside whisky that has been produced since 1824.

The distilleries are located in different regions of Scotland, which can impact the flavor of the whisky due to the different terroirs. The maturation process also differs between the two whiskies, with Dalmore 12 aged in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in sherry casks, while Macallan 12 is aged entirely in sherry casks.

Dalmore 12 vs Macallan 12: A Comparison

When it comes to premium Scotch whiskies, Dalmore 12 and Macallan 12 are two of the most popular options on the market.

While both are single malt whiskies with a 12-year age statement, they have distinct differences that set them apart.

Dalmore 12

Dalmore 12 is a Highland whisky that is known for its rich, fruity flavor profile. It is aged in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in sherry casks, which gives it a unique character. The nose is filled with aromas of dark fruit, citrus, chocolate, and cinnamon.

On the palate, you will taste apricot, fig, grape, and pecan, with a short finish of dark fruit, baking spice, and bitterness. The alcohol content is 80 proof (40% ABV).

Macallan 12

Macallan 12, on the other hand, is a Speyside whisky that is aged exclusively in sherry casks. This gives it a distinctively sweet, rich flavor profile. The nose is filled with aromas of dried fruit, vanilla, and ginger, while the palate is dominated by flavors of dried fruit, spice, and oak. The finish is long and smooth, with a hint of sweetness. The alcohol content is also 80 proof (40% ABV).

Comparison

When comparing Dalmore 12 and Macallan 12, there are several key differences to note:

• Aging: While both whiskies are aged for 12 years, Dalmore 12 is aged in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in sherry casks, while Macallan 12 is aged exclusively in sherry casks. This gives Dalmore 12 a more complex flavor profile, while Macallan 12 has a more consistent, sweet flavor throughout.
• Flavor: Dalmore 12 has a rich, fruity flavor profile with notes of dark fruit, citrus, and chocolate, while Macallan 12 has a sweet, rich flavor profile with notes of dried fruit and spice.
• Finish: Dalmore 12 has a short finish with a hint of bitterness, while Macallan 12 has a long, smooth finish with a hint of sweetness.

Understanding Single Malt Whisky

Single malt whisky is a type of whisky that is made from malted barley, water, and yeast.

It is produced by a single distillery, which means that all the whisky in the bottle comes from the same distillery. Single malt whisky is often associated with Scotland, where it has been produced for centuries, but it is also made in other countries, such as Japan and the United States.

Whisky is made by fermenting and distilling malted barley, which is then aged in oak barrels. The length of time that the whisky is aged can vary from a few years to several decades. During the aging process, the whisky takes on the flavors and aromas of the oak barrels, which can include vanilla, caramel, and spice.

Scotch whisky is a type of whisky that is made in Scotland. To be called Scotch whisky, it must be made from malted barley, water, and yeast, and it must be aged in oak barrels for at least three years. Scotch whisky is divided into five categories: single malt, single grain, blended malt, blended grain, and blended Scotch whisky.

Single malt Scotch whisky is made from malted barley, water, and yeast, and it is produced by a single distillery. It is considered to be the purest form of Scotch whisky because it is not blended with any other whiskies. Single malt Scotch whisky can vary in flavor and aroma depending on the distillery, the aging process, and other factors.

Malted barley is a key ingredient in single malt whisky. It is barley that has been allowed to germinate and then dried in a kiln. This process is known as malting, and it is what gives the whisky its distinctive flavor. The type of barley used, as well as the length and temperature of the malting process, can all affect the flavor of the whisky.

Origins and History

Dalmore 12 and Macallan 12 are two highly praised single malt scotch whiskies that have made waves in the whisky world with their distinct flavour profiles. Both whiskies have a rich history and are produced in Scotland, a country renowned for its whisky production.

The Macallan 12 was first introduced in 1824 and is produced by the Macallan Distillery, located in Speyside, Scotland. The distillery is known for producing some of the finest single malt scotch whiskies in the world. The Macallan Distillery is currently owned by the Edrington Group, a privately owned spirits company based in Scotland.

Dalmore 12, on the other hand, is produced by the Dalmore Distillery, located in Alness, Scotland. The distillery was founded in 1839 by Alexander Matheson and has been producing whisky for over 180 years. Dalmore is currently owned by Whyte & Mackay, a spirits company based in Glasgow, Scotland.

Both whiskies have a unique history and production process. The Macallan 12 is made using a combination of sherry-seasoned American and European oak casks, which gives it a distinct flavour profile. The Dalmore 12, on the other hand, is matured in American white oak ex-bourbon casks and finished in sherry casks. This gives it a rich, fruity flavour with hints of spice and chocolate.