Dalmore Tweed Dram Scotch

Years ago, The Dalmore launched a quartet of whiskies to support environmental conservation efforts focused on Scotland's vital rivers. The four rivers represented were Spey, Tweed, Tay, and Dee. Their pristine waters and abundant salmon populations inspired the distillery's choice of fish imagery for the metallic labels. This initial review covers the "Tweed Dram." It was bottled in 2011 at 40% ABV and presents a tawny hue. The nose initially offers the signature caramelized orange characteristic of Dalmore, accompanied by spices and peaches. Following the first taste, the aroma shifts to apples, pears, and cinnamon, with undertones of cotton candy and milk powder. On the palate, it is exceptionally velvety and delightful, featuring notes of oranges, vanilla, and cotton candy, rendering it very sweet. The finish is unexpectedly salty, with prominent orange and various citrus profiles. It evolves into a spicy powerhouse, feeling more potent than its stated 40% ABV, with a distinct ginger note. Observation: I often smell empty glasses, and this one revealed a remarkable aroma of dark chocolate with hazelnuts. In summary, this was a highly pleasing, viscous, and oily dram with a predominantly citrusy and spicy character. It felt like an elevated version of the standard, albeit very good, 12-year-old expression. I understand the skepticism surrounding Dalmore's lower ABV bottlings, but I generally find them to be quite good, and this one is no exception. It is a very good whisky that I can confidently rate at 89 out of 100.