It seems like The Dalmore is like buses, nothing for a while then three come along at once. The Highland distillery has just announced the launch of the limited edition Dalmore Vintage Port Collection which consists of three Tawny Port pipe finished whiskies, a Dalmore Vintage 1996, Dalmore Vintage 1998 and Dalmore Vintage 2001.

The new collection was hand picked by The Dalmore's very own vintage Master Distiller, Richard Paterson who is celebrating 50 years in the Scotch whisky industry this year.

All three of the vintage whiskies were matured in American white oak ex-bourbon casks then finished in Tawny Port pipes from renowned winemakers W&J Graham's vineyard in Douro, Portugal.

The oldest expression in the collection is the Dalmore Vintage 1996 20 year old, a whisky which the Dalmore describe as indulgent and smooth, offering a palate of Gingerbread and passion fruit, with a finish of pineapple, marzipan and blood oranges.

The Dalmore 1998 Vintage 18 year old is described as having a fruity palate of honeyed bananas, blueberries and grapes, with Damson plums and dark treacle providing a depth to the finish.

The final expression in the Vintage Port Collection is the Dalmore 2001 15 year old which the distillery says offers a spicier aroma and a palate of morello cherries. A coffee finish accompanied with hints of Turkish delight and figs.

Richard Paterson, Master Distiller at The Dalmore commented on his latest creations, saying: "For me, port and whisky complement each other perfectly, with port providing a fruitier palate to The Dalmore’s deep and complex new make spirit. Being able to finish these new releases in pipes of Graham’s port, which are some of the finest quality, during my anniversary year is incredibly exciting. I’m delighted to be able to continue our founder’s vision of creating new expressions that push the boundaries of what’s possible in the luxury single malt category."

Read more at source Scotch Malt Whisky