Whiskey Del Bac Dorado Review

Whiskey Del Bac Dorado uses mesquite to achieve its signature smoky style, a style that’s somewhat shared by folks like Balcones and Corsair, but is still uniquely Del Bac. A style that is divisive with some loving, some hating, but many enjoying. A style that is versatile, the smoke makes for one heck of a cocktail ingredient.

Like the Classic, the first time I tried the Del Bac Dorado was in single barrel form at a tasting in 2016. Now, 5 and 1/2(ish) years later I’m sitting down to see how this has evolved and what’s going on in the world of Arizona mesquite smoked single malts. A niche category I know, but potentially interesting nonetheless.

Let’s get to drinkin’!

Whiskey Del Bac Dorado – Details and Tasting Notes

Whiskey Details

Non-Chill Filtered | Natural Color

Style: Single Malt (American)
Region: Arizona, USA
Distiller: Hamilton Distillers

Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
Cask: New Charred Oak
Age: NAS
ABV: 46%

Batch: D 21-8

Whiskey Del Bac Dorado Price: NA – $55*

Related Whiskey

Whiskey Del Bac Classic Single Malt
Del Bac Distiller’s Cut Summer 21
Del Bac Classic Single Barrel
Del Bac Dorado Single Barrel
Virginia Distillery Courage and Conviction Single Malt

White background tasting shot with the Whiskey Del Bac Dorado bottle and a glass of whiskey next to it.

“Using the Scottish model of whisky-making, Dorado is made from 100% barley that is malted and smoked over a velvet mesquite fire, mashed, fermented, copper pot distilled, aged and bottled on site.” – Whiskey Del Bac

Whiskey Del Bac Dorado Tasting Notes

EYE
Amber

NOSE
Mesquite BBQ smoke, blackberry licorice, oak, caramelized banana, slight cocoa and spice and leather.

Mesquite BBQ smoke goes on and on and makes for a wonderful profile.

PALATE
Mesquite BBQ, oak, blackberry licorice, nutty, sweet tobacco and some leather and spice.

This is fun, this is tasty, it’s not for everyone, but in its niche, it’s a killer.

FINISH
Long -> Mesquite, oak, spiced citrus, and nuts slowly fade out.

BALANCE, BODY and FEEL
Well balanced, medium-full body and a warm velvety feel.

Whiskey Del Bac Dorado – Overall Thoughts and Score

This has evolved from early batches quite well and the majority of that tannic, woody, crafty note has faded to the background. It’s likely been covered up by the Dorado’s mesquite smoke, but the fact is that it isn’t prominent and that previous rawness has been replaced by more complexity and nuance. It’s like an elegant BBQ.

As you’d expect, the mesquite holds heavy, but not overwhelmingly so or in a one-noted fashion. There are layers of sweetness and earthiness and spice to go along with the smoke which not only makes the Whiskey Del Bac Dorado a decent sipper, but a fantastic mixer too. Smoked Old Fashioned anyone?

SCORE: 4/5 (good, definitely recommend ~ B+ | 87-89)

*Disclosure: The bottle for this American Single Malt review was graciously sent to me by the company without obligation. The views, opinions, and tasting notes are 100% my own.