The Dalmore King Alexander III

Distillery Background and History

The Dalmore Distillery was founded in 1839 by Alexander Matheson in Alness, located on Scotland’s Cromarty Firth. In 1867, it became associated with the Clan Mackenzie, adopting the iconic 12‑point Royal Stag emblem. Today owned by Whyte & Mackay (Alliance Global), it’s renowned for its luxurious sherry and multi-cask finishing program and premium single malt expressions.

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Crafted under the guidance of Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass (alongside master blender Richard Paterson OBE), King Alexander III reflects a philosophy of precision blending and creative cask curation. It uses six distinct cask types to deliver harmony, depth, and elegant finishing.

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Produced from 100% malted Scottish barley. Water is drawn from the River Averon (fed by Loch Morie), and fermentation uses traditional yeast strains. These factors contribute to The Dalmore’s hallmark silky texture and fruit-forward balance.

Distillation Process

The spirit is distilled in eight copper pot stills—four wash (one double sized) and four spirit stills with water-jacketed necks and shell-tube condensers—designed to maximize reflux and yield a refined, medium-bodied Highland malt.

Maturation & Cask Information

Initial maturation occurs in American oak ex-bourbon casks. The whisky is then finished in six curated cask types: Matusalem Oloroso sherry butts, port pipes, Madeira, Marsala, Cabernet Sauvignon wine barriques, and bourbon barrels. These are married to create a rich, multi-layered profile.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Bright red berries, passion fruit, crème caramel, vanilla, and nutty oak.

Palate: Citrus zest, almond, crème brûlée, vanilla, with honeyed raisins and subtle spice.

Finish: Long and warming—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, dried citrus peel, toffee and nutmeg echo.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs beautifully with rich desserts like crème brûlée, citrus fruit tarts, almond cake or biscotti. Also excellent alongside dried fruit platters, smoked duck, or goat cheese with honey.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water in a Glencairn or tulip glass. Serve at 15–18 °C. A gentle swirl helps to open up spice and fruit aromatics. Avoid ice to preserve layered complexity.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store upright in a cool, dark place. With an established blended profile and 40% ABV, further bottle aging will yield minimal evolution. Best enjoyed within 1–2 years once opened for peak aromatic freshness.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single malt Scotch whisky—100% malted barley; unpeated; matured in ex-bourbon, sherry, port, Madeira, Marsala, and Cabernet Sauvignon casks.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40%