Dalmore 18 year old (2023), 43%

This year’s edition rises from the glass with dried apricots and baked apples, underscored by hot chocolate, caramel, and a sweet bready aroma. The palate introduces high-cacao dark chocolate flaked with sea salt, dried leather, and honey-like sweetness. The fruit remains, though it’s more stewed than dried. Oak and leather guide the whisky into its long finish, with hints of spice and citrus fading slowly.