The Dalmore Luminary Edition 2025: When Whisky Meets Architecture

A 52-Year-Old Collector's Jewel and a 17-Year-Old Masterpiece Redefine Excellence

The Dalmore reveals the third chapter of its prestigious Luminary Series with two exceptional single malt whiskies: The Luminary No. 3 – The Rare, an extraordinary 52-year-old expression, and a 17-year-old limited edition crafted for the broader market. Created in collaboration with world-renowned architect Ben Dobbin of Foster + Partners and curated with V&A Dundee, this edition unites two worlds where precision and legacy converge.

While The Rare exists in only two bottles, enclosed in a stunning bronze sculpture by Dobbin, the 17-year-old edition is available in 20,000 bottles, bottled at 49.2% ABV, and priced at $400 (approx. €350).

Design and Presentation

The Rare is suspended in a bespoke asymmetrical sculpture, a feat of engineering and beauty inspired by tensegrity. Crafted from bronze and evoking Dobbin’s iconic architectural style, the design mirrors the balance and structure found in fine whisky-making. The 17-year-old release reflects modern elegance, continuing The Dalmore’s tradition of visually striking presentations that highlight the whisky’s heritage.

Maturation and Flavor Profile

The 17-year-old single malt was finished in Calvados casks, following maturation in a complex combination of Matusalem and Apostoles sherry casks, red wine casks from Bordeaux and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and American white oak. The 52-year-old Rare was also finished in a Calvados cask, enhancing its rich, orchard-fruit character and refined elegance.

Master Blender's Statement

Ben Dobbin, Luminary No.3, notes:
“Visiting the distillery greatly influenced my design process... This was a true, genuine partnership that I’m very proud of.”

Richard Paterson OBE adds:
“This collaboration perfectly complements The Luminary Series and shows what can be achieved when creative talents come together.”

Gregg Glass reflects: “There are many similarities between whisky making and architecture—both are iterative, timeless crafts.”

Tasting Notes

The Rare – 52-Year-Old

Baked red apples, sugared almonds, soft wood spice
Rich caramel, apple crumble, dark chocolate, blood orange
Vanilla, tarte tatin, marzipan, liquorice

17-Year-Old Limited Edition

Orchard fruits, Madagascan vanilla, cinnamon, rose water
Butterscotch, red apples, tarte tatin, dark cacao, liquorice, cardamom, Seville oranges, green tea
Dried apricots, ripe blackberries, fresh baked brioche

The Dalmore Luminary Edition 2025 stands as a landmark in whisky innovation and design. From an ultra-exclusive 52-year-old treasure to a richly layered 17-year-old crafted for global collectors, it is a celebration of craftsmanship, creativity, and the enduring spirit of single malt whisky.

About the author

Spiritory Team

Spiritory is a team of dedicated Whisky, Rum and Spirits Enthusiast. Our passion for the product, craftmanship and art of producing the finest spirits in the world will be represented in every article we write on our blog-page. Our goal is to produce content which is interesting to read and for a broad base of consumers, enthusiasts, investors and collectors.