The Dalmore Distillery has announced the launch of the third instalment of its annual limited-edition Cask Curation Series.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition, comprises three single malt Scotch whiskies finished in casks from the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape region of France, a long-standing favourite of the Highland whisky maker.

First introduced in 2023, the Cask Curation Series celebrates the distillery’s innovative approach to cask maturation. The Dalmore carefully curates casks from the world’s finest wineries and bodegas in its ongoing quest to create single malt whiskies that elevate every moment. The series pays homage to these exceptional casks, the spirit of travel they evoke, its cherished partners and the distillery’s artistry in whisky making.

Situated in the Rhône wine region of southeast France, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest wines, characterised by rich, plummy flavours. Over time, these wines develop greater complexity, with savoury and jammy notes that lend a mature finish.

Working closely with partner Château Mont-Redon and fourth-generation winemaker Pierre Fabre, The Dalmore gained access to freshly emptied Châteauneuf-du-Pape casks. Château Mont-Redon’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape red is primarily made from Grenache Noir (57%), complemented by Syrah (33%), Mourvèdre (9%) and small quantities of other varietals, including Cinsault and Vaccarèse.

To further showcase the potential of these casks, The Dalmore used the same 2023 Château Mont-Redon red wine casks to finish each of the three whiskies in the set. This approach highlights how the flavours imparted by these special casks can enhance The Dalmore’s spirit and signature house style at three different ages.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition – Aged 24 Years (40.7% ABV) is said to offer aromas of honey, sweet citrus, orchard fruits and gentle spice. The palate reveals notes of red berries, crème brûlée, orange zest and dark toffee.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition – Aged 34 Years (40.5% ABV) is said to present delicate floral aromas, with hints of forest fruits, vanilla and Seville orange. The palate delivers rich notes of dark berries, stone fruits, vanilla, warm honey, white chocolate and a subtle touch of liquorice.

The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition – Aged 43 Years (40.3% ABV) is said to reveal aromas of dried fruits, orange marmalade, mānuka honey and antique leather. On the palate, notes of forest berries, dark chocolate, honeyed mango and warming spices unfold.

Commenting on the launch, Richard Paterson OBE, Master Distiller at The Dalmore, said: “We are truly passionate about the art of cask curation and the flavours that can be created with The Dalmore’s unique spirit when using casks from the finest wineries and bodegas. Red wine casks have played an integral role in shaping The Dalmore’s success, so it felt fitting to release these very rare expressions as part of the Cask Curation Series.”

Limited to just 150 sets, The Dalmore Cask Curation Series: The Red Wine Cask Edition is now available from select specialist retailers, for a RRP of £36,100.