The Dalmore constellation single malt priced at Rs 13.3 crore is a superhit with Scotch connoisseurs. Shibaji Roychoudhury meets master blender David Robertson at an event organised by the Delhi Duty Free Services to tell you how very special this rare malt is
What brings you to IndiaIJ
We’ve been looking at India as a highly attractive opportunity for our rare Highland single malt. We felt the time is right to take the next step. The feedback has been hugely positive.
Dalmore is among the top 10 Scotch whiskys in the world. What makes it so specialIJ
Our Highland location allows an abundance of natural raw material like cold water, ripe and plump barley and talented artisans that craft our spirit. The coastal location ensures a balanced maturation in our hand-picked bourbon barrels and sherry wood casks.
We’re also fortunate to have an iconic master distiller in Richard Paterson, who has been responsible for our whisky for over four decades.
Tell us about the Dalmore constellation collection.
This is a unique collection of 21 vintages, single cask, cask strength bottlings of our very best stocks. The vintages range form the youngest in 1992 to the oldest from 1964. They are presented in hand-crafted crystal decanters, adorned with a solid silver stags head, solid silver collar, numbered, certificated and presented in a bespoke highly lacquered purple gift box priced at $2,25,000.
What got you interested in whiskey/ScotchIJ
My father was a distillery manager.
I loved the sight, sound and smell of the distillery so much that I decided to follow in his footsteps. I went to the University of Edinburgh where I secured an honours in Brewing and Distilling.
What makes a whisky exceptionalIJ
The range and variation in colour, aroma and taste. Compared to rum and cognac, the American whisky and Irish Scotch has greater variation.
Your favourite Dalmore expressionIJ
I love Dalmore 18 Yo because it contains a beautiful balance of flavours from vanilla, honey and fresh fruits from our bourbon barrels fused with aromatic spices, dry fruit and citrus orange from our 30 Yo Matudalem sherry butts.
Why has Dalmore released only 4,000 bottles in this collectionIJ
We have released 7,500 bottles and plan to release 20 per cent of this each year for the next five years.
What are your marketing strategiesIJ
We are seeking the right partners, the right travel retail places, the best bars and the most wonderful hotels. We work with our partners to host intimate tasting events.
What kind of drinks can this be blended withIJ
The Dalmore should be enjoyed on its own or with a few drops of still mineral water.