Scottish whisky distiller The Dalmore has embarked on an artistic journey, merging the worlds of whisky and architecture in an exceptional collaboration with Melodie Leung from Zaha Hadid Architects. This creative endeavor is part of the Luminary Series, a long-term partnership with V&A Dundee, aimed at pushing the boundaries of what defines a bottle of whisky as a piece of art.
The Rare: A Singular Creation
The centerpiece of this collaboration is The Dalmore Luminary 2024 Edition – The Rare. This extraordinary single malt whisky is limited to just three decanters, making it a true collector’s item. Master whisky makers Gregg Glass and Richard Paterson OBE worked closely with Melodie Leung, who drew inspiration from her childhood visits to Hong Kong's vibrant markets. These experiences influenced Glass to select some of The Dalmore’s most unique casks, resulting in a 49-year-old whisky that is truly one of a kind.
The Rare 2024 Edition boasts a complex aroma profile, featuring Madagascan vanilla, cinnamon, dark cacao, and rich berry fruits. On the palate, it offers a harmonious blend of chestnuts, brioche, and blackcurrant, with a finishing touch of sugared almonds and roasted Colombian coffee. This rare whisky was matured in American white oak ex-bourbon casks, adding to its unique character and depth.
Gregg Glass and Richard Paterson OBE’s expertise in whisky making, combined with Leung’s creative vision, led to a meeting of minds and skills that celebrated the fusion of tradition and modernity. Leung's storytelling and vivid recollections from her childhood helped shape the sensory journey that The Rare 2024 Edition aims to provide.
Artistic Sculptures
In addition to the whisky, Leung designed two stunning sculptures, inspired by the whisky-making process. These sculptures, crafted from a single piece of glass, exhibit a liquid-like texture that required hundreds of hours of meticulous work by skilled glassworkers. The swirling and flowing design of the sculptures reflects the intricate layers of flavor found in the whisky.
One of these sculptures, paired with a decanter of The Rare, was auctioned this year, with all proceeds going to V&A Dundee. This unique piece of art was not only a testament to Leung’s talent but also a charitable contribution to the arts. The other sculpture will be displayed at The Dalmore Distillery, providing visitors with a visual representation of the craftsmanship and creativity that went into creating The Rare.
Additionally, a designer proof and dummy decanter will be available for public viewing at V&A Dundee, and another proof will be showcased at Zaha Hadid Architects. These displays will allow the public to appreciate the artistic collaboration and the intricate details of the design, further blurring the lines between art and whisky making.
The Collectible: A Coveted Addition
Alongside The Rare, The Dalmore has also introduced The Dalmore Luminary No.2 – The Collectible. This 16-year-old whisky was aged in American white oak ex-bourbon casks and finished in Tawny Port pipes and Apostoles sherry casks, with a touch of rare peated Dalmore. The result is a whisky that features a delightful array of flavors, including manuka honey, crème brûlée, Seville oranges, brioche, and Alphonso mangoes.
The packaging for The Collectible, also designed by Leung, reflects the fluid swirls and layered flavors of the whisky. Inspired by her conversations with Glass, the design captures the essence of their shared memories and the intricate process of whisky making. The packaging is not just a container but an extension of the whisky itself, showcasing the thought and care that went into its creation.
With only 20,000 bottles available worldwide, this release is a highly sought-after addition for whisky enthusiasts. The combination of its unique flavor profile and artistic packaging makes it a standout in any collection. Keen whisky lovers will appreciate the nuanced aromas and flavors that make The Collectible a testament to The Dalmore’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
Conclusion
The collaboration between The Dalmore and Zaha Hadid Architects has resulted in a series of releases that go beyond traditional whisky making. The Dalmore Luminary 2024 Edition – The Rare and The Dalmore Luminary No.2 – The Collectible are not just exceptional whiskies but also works of art that celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and collaboration.
Through this partnership, The Dalmore has demonstrated that the art of whisky making can be elevated to new heights when combined with innovative design and artistic vision. The Luminary Series is a celebration of the intersection of two worlds, creating experiences that delight both the senses and the imagination.
For more information on these extraordinary releases, visit www.thedalmore.com.
About The Dalmore
The Dalmore is a prestigious Scotch whisky distillery located in Alness, Scotland, in the Highland region. Founded in 1839 by Sir Alexander Matheson, The Dalmore has a long and illustrious history of producing high-quality single malt Scotch whisky. The distillery's name is derived from the Gaelic "An Dhail Mòr," which means "The Big Field," reflecting its scenic location on the banks of the Cromarty Firth.
One of the defining characteristics of The Dalmore is its dedication to crafting exceptional single malt Scotch whisky through traditional methods. The distillery uses copper pot stills, a slow fermentation process, and the finest oak casks for aging. They are particularly known for their rich and complex flavor profiles, often featuring notes of dark chocolate, orange, spices, and a well-balanced sweetness.
The Dalmore offers a wide range of expressions, each with its own unique character. Their core range includes the Dalmore 12-Year-Old, 15-Year-Old, and 18-Year-Old, which are celebrated for their quality and accessibility. The distillery also releases limited-edition and high-end expressions that have become coveted by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Visitors to The Dalmore Distillery can experience the brand's heritage and craftsmanship through guided tours and tastings. The distillery provides an opportunity to explore the production process, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and aging in a picturesque setting that showcases the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
The Dalmore's unwavering commitment to producing single malt Scotch whisky of the highest quality has made it a respected name in the world of whisky. Its dedication to traditional methods, meticulous attention to detail, and exceptional flavor profiles have earned it a place of honor among whisky connoisseurs and collectors who appreciate the craftsmanship of this Highland distillery.
