W&W: Dalmore Quintessence + Rolex Daytona

The Quintessence: This new release from Dalmore is a non-age-statement whisky and the first and only single malt whisky that has been matured in five different red wine casks. Richard Paterson has always attested to his passion for exceptional red wine, so what could be more befitting than blending a unique whisky that showcases this passion. The whisky is primarily matured in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels then divided into the five hand selected Californian red wine casks. Each of the casks individually held the following different red wine varietals; Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. After 5 years of finishing in each different barrel, the whiskies are then re-introduced to each other with the aid of Richard Paterson’s master blending skill.

On the nose: at first you will find raisin notes which are followed by fresher greener notes which then evolve into the more defined dried fruit and nut mix, think dried cranberries and cashews.

On the palate: it is velvety and rich, typical of the Dalmore style spirit which showcased the classic orange undercurrent but coupled with cranberries again, dark fruits, plums and a sweet vanilla spice. The finish: is medium which leaves behind a level of sweetness and the vanilla spiciness from the whiskies initial American white oak maturation.

The verdict: in some ways this is a very different Dalmore but at the same time there is a familiarity for those who are already initiated with the distillery. After leaving the whisky for 15-20 minutes the most notable development was the nose which became sweeter with notes of strawberry-cream candies. The limited edition Quintessence has a slightly higher ABV percentage than most of the other Dalmore whiskies. Adding just a drop of water brought out more of the red fruit notes.

Info: ABV 45% in a 70cl bottle

The Quintessential Sports Chronograph: Rolex Daytona is adored by many for reasons unknown but also loved by many for very good reasons. It was launched in 1963 as the plain Cosmograph Ref. 6239 and throughout its many years of production became not only iconic but also the quintessential sports chronograph.

The Daytona was inspired by motor racing and the original name of the Daytona was actually ‘Le Mans’ but obviously this name didn’t stick. When the Cosmograph made its way across the pond, Rolex USA requested that Daytona be inscribed on the dial for the American-market models as Rolex was the official sponsor of the 24-hour race at Daytona. However, this name change didn’t fully take place until 1964. Each winner of the gruelling 24-hour race has since then been presented with one of the watches as part of the prize.

This particular Daytona, is a reference 6265, known to many as the ‘Big Red’ and sports a case diameter of 37mm. It is fitted with the iconic screw down chronograph pushers, which is what made this iteration fully waterproof and the movement is also based on the reliable Valjoux 72, the Rolex 727. The Daytona till this day has remained from outside, somewhat, unchanged, which has largely influenced its iconic status – making it the quintessential sports chronograph.

Thanks to: the Watches of Knightsbridge for the loan of the Rolex Daytona and to The Whisky Shop for the loan of the Dalmore Quintessence.