Dalmore 12 vs Macallan 12: Whisky Comparison

Last Updated on: 15th August 2024, 12:02 am

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.

Uncover the distinctions between Dalmore 12 and Macallan 12 in this comprehensive analysis, and determine which whisky suits your preferences best!

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

Dalmore 12 vs Macallan 12 Sherry Oak: Comparison

Dalmore 12: A welcoming Highland single malt with a sweet profile, featuring dark fruits, citrus, and a touch of chocolate. Its short finish and approachability make it a favored choice for those new to whisky or seeking a smooth sip.

The Macallan 12 Sherry Oak: A distinguished Speyside single malt aged in sherry casks, offering a rich aroma of vanilla and dried fruits with a creamy palate. Its long, rewarding finish highlights the sherry influence, making it a cherished option for enthusiasts.

Verdict: Both Dalmore 12 and The Macallan 12 Sherry Oak present unique introductions to their respective regions, with Dalmore offering a smooth, sweet experience and Macallan showcasing the depth and richness of sherry cask maturation. Each represents a fine choice within the world of single malts, catering to different preferences for sweetness and complexity, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Dalmore 12: A Sweet & Approachable Highland Single Malt

Nose: Dark fruit, citrus, chocolate, cinnamon, plum.
Palate: Apricot, fig, grape, pecan.
Finish: Short, dark fruit, baking spice, bitter.
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
Similar to: Dalmore 15

The Dalmore 12 Year Old offers a welcoming introduction to Highland single malt whiskies, with a focus on sweetness and easy sipping. Here’s a breakdown:

Promising Nose: The aroma is inviting, hinting at complexity with a mix of dark fruits, orange, and even a touch of chocolate.

Subtle Sweetness: The initial taste offers subtle fruity flavors with a hint of pecan nuttiness, creating a pleasant sweetness.

Short Finish: The finish is brief, leaving behind a lingering touch of dark fruit with a hint of bitterness.

Easy Sipping: Overall, the Dalmore 12 caters to those who enjoy a sweeter and uncomplicated whisky experience, making it a good choice for beginners or those seeking a smooth after-dinner dram.

Facts & Accolades:

Dalmore 12 undergoes a unique aging process. The whisky starts in ex-bourbon barrels for 9 years before being split in two.
Half matures for an additional 3 years in seasoned Matusalem oloroso sherry casks, known for imparting rich sweetness.
The remaining half continues aging in the original ex-bourbon casks.
This combination creates a distinct flavor profile.
Dalmore 12 has received recognition from prestigious competitions, including a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a score of 95 points at the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.

Highland Legacy:

Dalmore is a Highland single malt distillery established in 1839 by Alexander Matheson in Alness, Scotland.
Currently, Dalmore is owned by Whyte & Mackay, a company that also owns Jura and other whisky brands. Whyte & Mackay itself is owned by Emperador Inc., a beverage company based in the Philippines.

Learn more: Dalmore Website

The Macallan 12 Sherry Oak: Savoring Sherry-Influenced Smoothness

Nose: Vanilla, dried fruit, oak
Palate: Vanilla, dried fruit, oak, prune
Finish: Oak, sherry
Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Macallan 12 Triple Cask

The Macallan 12 Sherry Oak is a single malt Scotch whisky renowned for its smooth character and rich flavors thanks to sherry cask maturation. Let’s delve into what makes it special:

Aromatic Allure: The initial impression is an inviting aroma rich in vanilla, with hints of dried fruits and a subtle touch of oak, creating a well-rounded fragrance.

Creamy Delight: The first sip reveals a wonderfully creamy texture that coats the palate pleasantly. The taste profile is a delightful blend of vanilla and dried fruits, with a hint of warming spice from ginger and nutmeg.

Long & Rewarding Finish: The finish is particularly noteworthy. It lingers beautifully, showcasing the sherry cask influence with its sweetness and depth.

Smooth & Mellow: The overall experience is one of smoothness and mellow character. This makes The Macallan 12 Sherry Oak a pleasurable drink for those who appreciate the unique touch imparted by sherry casks.

Sipping Perfection: This whisky is best enjoyed neat or with a large ice cube. The ice helps to release the complex flavors without diluting them, allowing you to fully appreciate the sherry influence.

Facts & Commitment to Quality:

The Macallan 12 Sherry Oak spends its entire 12-year aging process in carefully selected Oloroso sherry casks from Spain. Oloroso sherry, known for its sweetness and smoothness, contributes significantly to the whisky’s flavor profile.
It’s worth noting that The Macallan takes pride in not using artificial colorants in their whisky, even though such practices are permitted by regulations. This dedication to natural ingredients is appreciated by many whisky enthusiasts.

Highland Legacy:

Established in 1824, The Macallan Distillery is located in Craigellachie, Speyside region of Scotland.
The distillery is currently owned by the Edrington Group, a company that also owns other renowned brands such as Highland Park, Glenrothes, and The Famous Grouse.

Learn more: Macallan Website