New Release: Dalmore Launches 18 Years Old Cigar Malt Signature Reserve as Permanent Core Addition

A New Permanent Expression for a Storied Range

The Dalmore, a Highland distillery owned by Whyte & Mackay, has introduced the Cigar Malt Signature Reserve Aged 18 Years to its core lineup. Bottled at 46% ABV, this expression represents a permanent addition to the Cigar Malt range, which debuted more than two decades ago as a premium offering within the distillery's portfolio.

The release will be available later this month from the distillery's own website and through selected specialist retailers, with an RRP of €348.

Why the Cigar Malt Name Endures

The Cigar Malt designation derives from the whisky's flavor profile and its natural pairing with tobacco smoke. Earlier iterations of the range built on a distinctive struck match character, a sulfurous note that complements cigar smoke, alongside deep fruit and spice complexity. This 18 Years Old Signature Reserve maintains that philosophy while establishing a new age statement and refinement tier within the collection.

The broader Dalmore portfolio has seen considerable activity throughout 2026. The distillery released the Dalmore Cask Curation Series The Madeira Cask Edition, Dalmore Portfolio Series 2026 No.1, Dalmore Portfolio Series 2026 No.2, and Dalmore Portfolio Series 2026 No.3 in September, a diverse set of experiments and limited bottlings that complement the permanent Cigar Malt core range.

A Multi Cask Maturation Strategy

The spirit matures for sixteen years in American white oak ex Bourbon barrels before transitioning to finishing casks. The finishing regimen combines four distinct wood types, each selected to contribute specific character elements to the final expression.

Matusalem Sherry casks provide depth and dried fruit richness anchoring the profile. French oak Marsala casks introduce ginger warmth and sustained spice, keeping the finish active over time while contributing palate texture. The red wine finishes, French oak Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon barriques, layer additional complexity. Cabernet Franc adds aromatic nuance and subtle savory notes that define darker flavors without excess weight. Cabernet Sauvignon contributes tannin and structural support.

Aroma and Palate Expression

The distillery describes the whisky's aroma as presenting chocolate orange, dried fig, and dark fruit, balanced with hints of aromatic oud and sandalwood. On the palate, the expression develops notes of forest berries and sticky dates, paired with orange marmalade, dark chocolate, and cinnamon spice. The combination reflects the influence of Sherry and red wine finishing, layering stone fruit, baking spice, and deeper dried fruit tones into a cohesive profile that rewards both immediate enjoyment and extended contemplation.

Availability

The Dalmore Cigar Malt Signature Reserve Aged 18 Years will be available on Spiritory. The permanent core range status ensures broader access compared to limited portfolio releases, making this expression available from the distillery and specialist retailers alongside Spiritory's offering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the whisky finish in four different cask types instead of one or two?

Each cask contributes specific character: Sherry brings depth and dried fruit, Marsala adds ginger spice, Cabernet Franc provides aromatic nuance, and Cabernet Sauvignon contributes tannin and structure. Together they create a more layered profile than any single finish could provide.

Is this designed for cigar pairing or for solo tasting?

The struck match character and deep spice naturally complement cigar smoke, as the Cigar Malt name suggests. However, the complexity of dried fruit, dark chocolate, marmalade, and cinnamon makes it equally rewarding on its own.

Why release a permanent 18 Years Old when Dalmore just launched limited Portfolio editions in September?

The permanent core addition provides sustained availability and represents a defined flavor profile for collectors, while the Portfolio and Cask Curation releases offer limited experimental cask approaches. Together they address different collector interests.

Where can I buy it?

The Dalmore Cigar Malt Signature Reserve Aged 18 Years will be available on Spiritory, the distillery's website, and specialist retailers.