The Macallan recently delighted whisky connoisseurs with the launch of its The Tree of Life, a 46-year-old Highland single malt that pays homage to the renowned designer and architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Not to be outdone, The Dalmore responds with a spectacular spirit known as The Rare.
Officially titled the Luminary No.3 2025 Edition, this whisky lives up to its name. As detailed in the press materials: “Created in collaboration with Scotland’s design museum, V&A Dundee, and Ben Dobbin of Foster & Partners architects, The Rare decanter and sculpture is an exceptionally limited release of just one of two.”
In a display reminiscent of The Tree of Life by The Macallan, The Rare’s presentation is nothing short of extravagant. The simple yet elegant decanter features a silver swirl pattern on the stopper, housing the precious liquid. To draw attention to the essence of the experience, The Dalmore commissions an elaborate sculpture that elevates the bottle.
Ben Dobbin applies his renowned craftsmanship to create the pedestal from Scottish brown oak, bronze, and brass, complete with a round green leather liner embossed with The Dalmore’s 12-point Royal Stag emblem. The decorative aspects set high expectations for the whisky within.
The finishing process involves hand-selected casks, including Calvados vintage 1980, tawny port pipe, Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wine, 1940 Colheita port pipe, and Pedro Ximénez aged for 40 years.
Upon first whiff, aromas of soft wood spice, sugared almonds, and baked red apples greet you. Those fortunate enough to sample The Rare will experience notes of dark chocolate, blood orange, rich caramel, and apple crumble. The Dalmore describes its finish as a delightful mix of licorice, marzipan, vanilla, and tarte tatin.
Image Credit: Mensgear
Images courtesy of The Dalmore
Images courtesy of The Dalmore