Dalmore 17YO (42%)

This 17-year-old Dalmore fills the gap between 15 and 18 years perfectly, but does not feel like an intermediate step. The whisky derives its character from a combination of bourbon casks and a series of carefully selected sherry casks, including Amoroso, Apostoles, and Matusalem.
What stands out immediately is how rich and layered the whole comes across without becoming heavy. Orange and ripe orchard fruit form the base, with a warm spiciness underneath and a clear influence of the wood. Everything flows into one another without sharp transitions.
Midway through, the emphasis shifts to softer, sweeter notes. Poached pear and red fruit move towards toffee and marmalade, with the sherry casks providing extra depth without taking over.
The length lies primarily in the combination of fruit and wood. Dark chocolate, dried fruit, and a warm spiciness linger, with a quiet, slightly drying finish that slowly fades.