The Dalmore are especially pleased with their most recent 18 year-old single malt. It has been produced in response to customer and trade demand, according to their head of brand David Robertson.

"We are confident that this will become a significant and much sought-after core expression for many years to come," he enthused.

Its bottles are decorated with the solid emblem of a silvery metal stag's head, a mark of distinction the company previously saved for its older malts.

The stag dates right back to 1263, when members of Clan MacKenzie, who own The Dalmore, saved the life of King Alexander III of Scotland when he was charged by a stag.

The sleek bottle is housed in a purply-blue box, recalling Alexander's royal colours.

The Dalmore 18 was matured in American white oak for most of its life, but transferred into Matusalem sherry butts for its final years. The result is smooth, yet complex and has been compared to 'a galaxy of handmade chocolates'.

The main flavours are Columbian coffee, vanilla, truffles and rosemary, and they make this a Scotch whisky to truly savour.

Only 3,000 70cl bottles will be initially released at £85 per bottle, spread around Europe, Asia and the US.

____________________________________________________________