The Dalmore Vintage 2006 & 2009: Two Vintages, One Legacy

There are moments in a whisky lover’s journey that redefine the ritual. Not simply sipping, but savouring history—layered, distilled, and matured with regal intent. With the release of the Dalmore Vintage 2006 and Vintage 2009, such a moment has arrived.

Born on the northern shores of the Cromarty Firth, The Dalmore distillery has stood since 1839, shaped by the ambition of Alexander Matheson and later, refined by the Mackenzie Clan. Every bottle bears the 12-point Royal Stag, a symbol granted to the Mackenzies by King Alexander III himself—proof that The Dalmore’s regal bearing is no mere branding. It is legacy in liquid form.

The Dalmore’s unmatched complexity begins with its idiosyncratic stills, which produce a robust, fruity new make spirit. Under the eye of Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass—following in the bold footsteps of the legendary Richard Paterson—this spirit is nurtured, sculpted, and elevated in a lineage of cask artistry that has become the house signature. Nowhere is this mastery more evident than in the Vintage 2006 and 2009 expressions.

DALMORE VINTAGE 2006 – 18 YEARS OLD, 47.2% ABV

Time is the quiet architect of this indulgent dram. Initially matured in American white oak ex-Bourbon barrels, the 2006 Vintage is then finished in rare Matusalem and Amoroso Sherry casks. The result is opulent, unashamedly decadent. Sherry-soaked raisins flood the nose, while roasted figs and dark fruit unfurl on the palate, drawing you deeper into its amber depths. A trace of antique sherry lingers—mature, confident, and utterly Dalmore.

This is not a whisky that whispers; it commands attention. Every drop feels composed for those who understand that true luxury is not loud—it is layered.

DALMORE VINTAGE 2009 – 15 YEARS OLD, 48.9% ABV

The younger of the two carries its own seductive power. The Vintage 2009 begins in ex-Bourbon barrels, and is finished in a duet of Matusalem Sherry casks and 10-Year-Old Tawny Port pipes. The result is refined but vivid—an interplay of textures and tastes that keeps you guessing.

Opening notes of dark plum and Manuka honey give way to Morello cherry and candied orange, teasing the palate before soft wood spice settles in like a velvet curtain falling on the final act. This is a whisky that flirts, dances, and never misses a step. It is structure and seduction in equal measure.

Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass, dalmore, folioyvr, helen siwak, vancouver, bc, west coast luxury, whisky lovers — Alexander Matheson & Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass

Together, these two vintages exemplify The Dalmore’s devotion to the art of maturation. This is not about age alone, but about how time is used. It is about the rarest casks sourced through generations of relationships with Spain’s most esteemed bodegas and Portugal’s noble wine houses. It is about the confidence to hold back, to wait, and to only release when the whisky has become a masterpiece.

“The release of The Dalmore Vintage 2006 and 2009 is a reminder that true indulgence lies in patience, precision, and purpose. These are not whiskies to simply drink—they are to be contemplated, revered, and remembered. Each sip is a dialogue between heritage and craft, and The Dalmore continues to speak with an undeniably regal voice.” — Vlad Xanthopoulos, Vancouver Vices Ambassador.

The Dalmore Vintage 2006 and 2009 are more than expressions. They are declarations of intent: that great whisky is not just made—it is composed, curated, and ultimately, crowned. For those who appreciate timeless complexity, the stag has spoken.

Author Profile

Helen Siwak, Luxury Lifestyle Observer: Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].