At a recent Sotheby’s auction, the Dalmore Luminary No. 2 brought in an incredible $95,277, creating a stir in the worlds of luxury whisky and art. This 49-year-old whisky from The Dalmore is not only an exceptional spirit but also a stunning fusion of whisky craftsmanship and contemporary art. The whisky is housed in a glass sculpture created by the renowned Zaha Hadid Architects’ Melodie Leung. The sculpture, weighing an impressive 80 kg and hand-polished over 500 hours, has transformed this rare bottle into a true masterpiece.
The Legacy of The Dalmore and a Noble Cause
What makes the auction even more remarkable is the charitable cause behind it. Whyte & Mackay, the parent company of The Dalmore, has pledged to donate the entire proceeds from the sale to V&A Dundee, further solidifying the brand’s legacy as a champion of culture and art. As Jonny Fowle, global head of spirits at Sotheby’s, noted: “This is a well-deserved outcome for a true collector’s item that combines a highly aged whisky, visionary design, and a worthy cause. The Dalmore is a titan in the whisky world, and this second iteration of their Luminary series encapsulates all the essential elements that discerning collectors seek in today’s premium whisky market.”
A Rare and Exquisite Whisky
The Dalmore Luminary No.2 has undergone an exceptional aging process, matured in a unique combination of ex-Bourbon and rare sherry casks, before being finished in a virgin oak hybrid cask from 1951. This meticulous process results in a whisky that is rich, complex, and incredibly rare, making it a true collector’s item. There are just three bottles of Luminary No. 2 made, along with two sculptures. One full set is kept in the distillery’s archives, and the last decanter is set aside for a future Luminary Series Compendium.
A Collector’s Dream and a Conversation Starter
The Dalmore Luminary No.2 is much more than just a whisky; it’s a collector’s dream, a conversation starter, and a piece of art that blends innovation and tradition. Its flavor profile—rich with notes of dark chocolate, spices, and dried fruits—perfectly complements its visual and conceptual grandeur. For whisky connoisseurs and luxury collectors, this rare and limited-edition bottle is destined to become a treasured gem, elevating the Dalmore brand even further as a symbol of excellence in the world of luxury whisky.
The Dalmore Luminary No.2 is a shining example of what happens when fine whisky, art, and philanthropy come together. As one of the most expensive and rarest bottles ever sold at auction, it reinforces The Dalmore’s place at the pinnacle of the whisky world, captivating both whisky lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
