Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 12:42 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.
Discover the differences between Dalmore 18 vs Macallan 18 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Single Malt is better for You!
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 18 vs Macallan 18: Comparison
Dalmore 18: Offers a balanced sherry influence with a complex yet lighter body. Long, warming finish. Noted for its smoothness but at a higher price.
Macallan Sherry Oak 18: Renowned for its exquisite sherry profile, velvety texture, and full body. A luxurious experience with a premium price tag.
Verdict: Both Dalmore 18 and Macallan Sherry Oak 18 showcase the elegance of sherry-aged whiskies. Dalmore presents a balanced and light experience, while Macallan sets the standard for richness and depth, reflecting its splurge-worthy status, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Similar Whiskies to Macallan 18
Dalmore 18: Balanced But Not Budget-Friendly (Enjoyable Sherry Influence)
- Nose: Cough syrup, vanilla, brown sugar, baking spice
- Palate: Oak, orange, raisins, baking spice
- Finish: Long, oak spice, pepper, sherry
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Dalmore 15
The Dalmore 18 opens with a hint of medicinal note, followed by vanilla, brown sugar, and baking spices. While inviting, the palate is lighter-bodied with oak, orange, raisin, and baking spice flavors.
The saving grace is the finish, long and warm with peppery and rich sherry notes. Compared to the sweeter 12 and 15 year Dalmores, the 18 offers a more balanced profile.
Pros:
- Balanced flavor profile with sherry influence
- Long, warming finish
- Smooth and drinkable
Cons:
- Lighter-bodied
- Not as complex as some other 18-year-olds
- Uses artificial coloring
- Pricier than some comparable options
Overall Impression:
The Dalmore 18 is an enjoyable dram, but for the price, there are superior 18-year-old whiskies available. This might be a good choice for Dalmore fans or those seeking a lighter-bodied sherry-influenced whisky, but budget-minded shoppers might find better value elsewhere.
Additional Notes:
- Aged 14 years in bourbon barrels, then finished 4 years in sherry casks.
- Won a Gold Medal at the 2019 International Wine & Spirits Competition.
- Uses artificial coloring.
- Produced by Dalmore Distillery, founded in 1839, currently owned by Whyte & Mackay.
Macallan Sherry Oak 18: A Sherry Masterpiece (For Splurge-Worthy Sipping)
- Nose: Dates, raisins, oak, cinnamon, clove
- Palate: Oak, baking spice, dark chocolate, raisin
- Finish: Long, tobacco, chocolate, dried fruit
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Glengoyne 21
The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 presents an exquisite nose – delicate hints of dates and raisins dancing with subtle oak, cinnamon, and a touch of clove. The luxurious experience continues on the palate with a velvety texture and a satisfyingly full body.
The flavor is smooth, with oak playing the lead role, followed by a supporting cast of cinnamon, nutmeg, dark chocolate, and raisin notes. The lengthy finish warms pleasantly, leaving lingering impressions of tobacco, dark chocolate, and dark fruit.
A Whisky for Savoring Neat
This perfectly balanced dram is best enjoyed neat, as no water or ice is needed to enhance its exceptional taste.
Exceptional, But Pricey
While typically a fan of smoky Scotches, this reviewer admits the Macallan Sherry Oak 18 is a true standout among sherry whiskies. It delivers an elite drinking experience, justifying its premium price tag.
Setting the Sherry Standard
From the enticing nose to the lingering finish, this Macallan offers a remarkable journey for the senses. Many consider it the benchmark for sherry-aged whiskies, leaving competitors struggling to measure up.
Additional Notes:
- Aged for 18 years in sherry-seasoned oak casks sourced from Jerez, Spain.
- No artificial coloring added for a natural presentation.
- Produced by the Macallan Distillery, founded in 1824.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Dalmore 18 | $280 |
| Macallan 18 | $400 |