What happens when you bring together one of the world’s most revered scotch whisky makers and the world’s best chef together? Well, the combination of The Dalmore and Chef Massimo Bottura (pic above right) has resulted in the creation of a one of a kind scotch whisky bottling, The Dalmore L’Anima Aged 49 Years. This is Bottura’s first foray into spirits.
The expertly crafted single malt whisky is a celebration of the shared respect for tradition and innovation that unites the pair. The Dalmore L’Anima, Aged 49 Years (‘L’Anima meaning “soul†in Italian), is a unique single malt, created from three unique assemblages which were brought together by Master Distiller, Richard Paterson (pic above left) using some of the distillery’s most exquisite casks.
The rare and aged bottling was auctioned at Sotheby’s in an online sale in Spring 2019, running from 25 April to 9 May, with all proceeds benefiting Bottura’s non-profit organization,Food For Soul, which empowers communities to fight food waste through social inclusion.
An exclusive one of a kind bottling and manifestation of each maverick’s unique skill set, The Dalmore L’Anima was inspired by Bottura and Paterson’s conversations and shared creativity. Paterson selected whiskies embodying the chocolate orange profile which The Dalmore is known for, while layering with flavors reminiscent of Bottura’s kitchen and beloved Italian produce.
“When Master Distiller Richard Paterson and I met in Modena, it was a true meeting of the minds,†Bottura explains. “Our creative processes seamlessly fused together with our passion and deep understanding of flavor complexity and connection to create a very special bottle that brings together some of the most precious scotch whisky barrels in the world.â€
On the nose, the single malt has exotic aromas of sun-kissed raisins, bitter chocolate and old English marmalade; to taste, hints of freshly brewed Java coffee, Demerara sugar, pecan pie and crème brûlée, while Sanguinello blood oranges linger on the after taste alongside rich treacle and succulent figs.
This natural strength whisky (41.5% ABV) will be elegantly held in a crystal decanter featuring a sterling silver collar accompanied by a stopper, a silver stag, and sophisticated engraving. It will be presented in a luxurious bespoke, handcrafted cabinet made from Italian Olive Wood, American Black Walnut and solid Ebony by expert Scottish craftsman John Galvin.
The Dalmore L’Anima is accompanied by a dinner for two at Massimo Bottura’s Osteria Francescana, Modena. This once–in–a-lifetime lot will be offered by Sotheby’s with no reserve.
