Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 06:28 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.
Uncover the variances between Dalmore 12 and Mortlach 12 in this comprehensive analysis, and make an informed choice about which Single Malt suits your taste.
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 vs Mortlach: Comparison
The Dalmore 12: Rich with dark fruits and a hint of chocolate, leading to a short, slightly bitter finish. A sweet introduction to Speyside’s dram.
Mortlach 12: Offers orchard fruits with a transition to baking spice and a medium finish of spice and caramel. A unique, complex Speyside choice.
Verdict: The Dalmore 12 and Mortlach 12 highlight the variety within Speyside whiskies, from The Dalmore’s sweet simplicity to Mortlach’s layered complexity, each offering a distinct tasting experience, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: My 12-Year-Old Recommended Whiskies
The Dalmore 12: A Sweet Speyside Dram
- 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
Aromas of Delight:
The Dalmore 12 opens with an inviting nose, rich with dark fruit notes like plum and raisin, intertwined with hints of orange, chocolate, and a touch of cinnamon.
Sweet & Fruity:
The palate is dominated by a wave of fruity sweetness, offering a pleasant initial taste.
A Touch of Bittersweet:
The finish is short, leaving lingering hints of dark fruit, baking spice, and a subtle bitter note.
First Impressions:
While the Dalmore 12 boasts a beautiful nose and enjoyable sweetness, it lacks the depth and complexity found in some premium whiskies. The short finish with a slightly bitter touch might not appeal to everyone.
Beyond the Basics:
- Unique Maturation: Aged for nine years in ex-bourbon barrels, then split with half spending an additional three years in seasoned oloroso sherry casks.
- Award-Winning: Earned the Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and scored 95 points at the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
Seeking a Speyside whisky with a focus on sweetness? The Dalmore 12 might be worth exploring.
Unveiling the Unique Character of Mortlach 12
- Nose: Caramel, vanilla, orchard fruits, almond, oak
- Palate: Orchard fruits, baking spice, roasted nuts, orange
- Finish: Medium, baking spice, caramel
- Alcohol content: 87 proof (43.4% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Macallan 12
On the Nose:
- Light & Fruity: Opens with refreshing apple and pear notes.
- Warm & Nutty: Hints of caramel, vanilla, toasted almond, and subtle oak add depth.
On the Palate:
- Rich & Smooth: Creates a satisfying and full-bodied mouthfeel.
- Fruity to Spicy: Flavors transition from apple and pear to a warming spice note, roasted nuts, and a touch of orange peel.
The Finish:
- Pleasant & Balanced: Offers lingering notes of baking spice and caramel with minimal warmth.
More than Speyside Standard:
While some might find Mortlach 12 to have some familiar characteristics, its unique “funky” notes add a layer of intrigue to the experience. Compared to Glenfiddich 12, it boasts a more complex, robust, and satisfying profile.
Value & Introduction:
Considering its current price, Mortlach 12 presents excellent value for both quality and taste. This expression serves as a great introduction to the distinct character of Mortlach whisky.
Behind the Bottle:
- Nicknamed “Wee Witchie”: referencing the distillery’s smallest still, believed to contribute to its unique character.
- 2.81 Times Distilled: This unique process, developed in 1896, utilizes pot stills of various shapes and sizes.
- Ex-Bourbon & Ex-Sherry Casks: Maturation in these casks contributes to the whisky’s depth and complexity.
- Founded in 1823: A historic Speyside distillery with a rich legacy.
- Part of Diageo: Mortlach malts contribute to the blending of Johnnie Walker’s Scotches.
Looking for a Speyside whisky with a twist? Explore the intriguing character of Mortlach 12.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Dalmore 12 | $70 |
| Mortlach 12 | $59 |