Dalmore 12 vs Dalmore 15: Scotch Comparison

Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:06 pm

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.

Explore the distinctions between Dalmore 12 and Dalmore 15 in this head-to-head comparison to decide your preferred choice.

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Deciding Your Pick:

Prefer a bold and fruity dram? Dalmore 12 might be your match.
Seek a drier and more sophisticated experience? Dalmore 15 could be your perfect pour.

Consider your budget and explore tasting notes online to solidify your choice, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Remember, the best Dalmore is the one that brings you joy!

Dalmore 12 vs. Dalmore 15: A Detailed Comparison

Characteristics of Dalmore 12

Aroma: Exhibits notes of dark fruit, citrus, chocolate, cinnamon, and plum.
Flavor Profile: Features apricot, fig, grape, and pecan on the palate.
Finish: Concludes with a finish that includes dark fruit and baking spice.
Alcohol Content: Bottled at 80 proof, or 40% alcohol by volume (ABV).
Serving Suggestion: Recommended to be enjoyed with added water.
Awards: Received a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and scored 95 points in the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
Aging Process: Initially aged for 9 years in ex-bourbon barrels before half of the batch is transferred to 30-year-old Matusalem oloroso sherry casks for an additional 3 years.
Founding and Location: Dalmore is a Highland Whisky, established in 1839 in Alness, Scotland.

Related: Best-rated 12-year whiskies

Characteristics of Dalmore 15

Aroma: Delivers aromas of dried fruit, hazelnut, and oak.
Flavor Profile: Offers tastes of raisins, baking spice, and oak on the palate.
Finish: Ends with a short finish characterized by oak spice, black pepper, and dried fruit.
Alcohol Content: Also bottled at 80 proof or 40% ABV.
Comparison: Often compared to Macallan 15.
Aging Process: Matured for 12 years in ex-bourbon barrels, followed by 3 years in sherry casks.
Awards: Achieved 94 points in the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.