The Dalmore has revealed the third chapter of its acclaimed Luminary Series at an exclusive event in Venice on May 7. The launch includes two limited-edition single malts, one of which was developed in partnership with British architect Ben Dobbin of Foster + Partners.
Dobbin, known for his work on iconic structures such as London’s Gherkin and the redesign of San Francisco’s Transamerica Pyramid, brings a fresh architectural perspective to the luxury whisky collaboration.
Created in Partnership with V&A Dundee
Continuing the series’ tradition, Dalmore worked alongside V&A Dundee, Scotland’s design museum, to explore the intersection of whisky artistry and contemporary design. The result is a release that pays tribute to both disciplines.
The standout of this release is the Dalmore Luminary 2025 Edition – The Rare, a 52-year-old single malt presented in a hand-crafted bronze sculpture designed by Dobbin.
Aged in Rare Casks, Bottled in a Work of Art
This ultra-rare whisky was first matured in American white oak ex-bourbon casks, followed by finishing in five different barrels: 1980 Calvados Apple Brandy, 1940 Colheita Port, Tawny Port, 40-year-old Pedro Ximénez Sherry, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wine casks. The whisky is bottled at 40.3% ABV, is unchill filtered, and retains its natural colour.
According to Dalmore, the whisky went through 60 iterations before the final expression was achieved.
Only two sets of The Rare Edition exist. One is being auctioned by Sotheby’s in Hong Kong until May 16 with an estimate of HK$800,000 to HK$1.6 million (US$100,000 to $200,000). The second will be permanently housed at Dalmore Distillery in the Scottish Highlands.
The auction has no reserve, and all proceeds will benefit the V&A Dundee. A model of the bottle and sculpture will be on public display at the museum from May 14.
Tasting Notes: Orchard Fruits and Spiced Elegance
Dalmore describes the nose of the 52-year-old whisky as having a “vibrant orchard quality,” with notes of Madagascar vanilla and cinnamon. The palate features rich layers of butterscotch, caramel apple tart, red liquorice, dark cocoa, and soft wood spice. Additional hints of cardamom, Seville orange, and green tea add complexity.
A Wider Release: 17-Year-Old Luminary No.3 Arrives Globally
Alongside the rare 52-year-old release, Dalmore is also introducing a more widely available expression: The Dalmore Luminary No.3 – 2025. This 17-year-old single malt is bottled at 49.2% ABV and limited to 20,000 bottles globally.
Matured in American white oak, the whisky is finished in a blend of seven casks, including vintage Calvados barrels from 1989 and 1999, Matusalem and Apostoles Sherries, as well as Bordeaux and Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wine casks.
On the nose, it offers aromas of baked red apples, sugared almonds, honey, and spice. The palate reveals layers of caramel, apple crumble, dark chocolate, and blood orange.
The 17-year-old whisky will be available from mid-May 2025 via The Dalmore’s website, luxury retailers, and global travel retail channels, priced at £299 ($399).
Celebrating Whisky and Design During Venice Biennale
The launch coincides with the pre-opening of the 19th Venice Architecture Biennale, one of the most prestigious architectural exhibitions in the world. Dalmore is a supporting partner of both the British Council and the UK Pavilion at the Biennale.
With its latest Luminary release, The Dalmore once again merges fine whisky craftsmanship with cutting-edge design, offering collectors and whisky lovers a rare glimpse into the future of luxury spirit collaborations.
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