The Dalmore and Ben Dobbin Join Forces for a Unique Luminary Whisky Series Launching in Venice

The Dalmore Shines in Collaboration with Ben Dobbin

In an exciting development for whisky enthusiasts and design aficionados alike, The Dalmore Single Malt Whisky has unveiled a collaboration with acclaimed architect Ben Dobbin of Foster + Partners. This partnership marks the launch of the 2025 edition of the prestigious Luminary Series, celebrated for blending the artistry of whisky-making with innovative architectural design. The unveiling took place at VA Dundee, Scotland’s Design Museum, where this remarkable edition—known as The Rare—was showcased.

The Luminary Series aims to spotlight extraordinary intersections between whisky crafting and architectural brilliance. The latest edition is a co-creation between Ben Dobbin, who is known for his influential projects like Apple Park and the revitalization of the iconic Transamerica Pyramid, and The Dalmore’s expert Whisky Makers, Gregg Glass and Richard Paterson OBE. This collaboration emphasizes both parties' commitment to excellence and creativity.

A Timeless Creation

The Dalmore Luminary 2025 Edition is truly a masterpiece, featuring an extremely rare single malt whisky aged for an impressive 52 years. The whisky is presented in an eye-catching, specially designed decanter that is encased within a bespoke sculpture by Dobbin. This sculpture showcases a dynamic display of tensegrity, giving the appearance of the whisky almost suspended in time. The blend of dramatic waves and rods in the sculpture reflects Dobbin's innovative vision and technical precision—perfectly aligned with The Dalmore’s luxurious heritage.

Gregg Glass, one of The Dalmore's master whisky makers, stated that the creative process behind this edition was not only technically demanding but also deeply rewarding. He found Siddhant's fresh perspective on shared elements between whisky-making and architecture to be particularly engaging. Both disciplines require an iterative design process, striving for perfection to create something that endures.

Richard Paterson OBE echoed these sentiments, expressing his excitement about how this collaboration not only adds depth to The Luminary Series but also demonstrates the potential achievements when distinct yet compatible creative minds come together. The integration of Dobbin’s architectural insight with The Dalmore’s whisky craftsmanship promises a unique exploration of taste and aesthetic appeal.

An Auction for a Cause

The Dalmore Luminary 2025 Edition—The Rare—is set to be auctioned through Sotheby's in Hong Kong, with the auction closing on May 16. Notably, all proceeds from this auction will be donated to VA Dundee, emphasizing the series' commitment to social responsibility alongside its artistic ambitions.

This edition follows prior collaborations in the Luminary Series that featured well-known designers like Kengo Kuma and Maurizio Mucciola, as well as Melodie Leung of Zaha Hadid Associates last year. Each collaboration highlights unique narratives in whisky-making and architecture, turning every release into a storytelling opportunity.

In Ben Dobbin’s words, collaborating with The Dalmore has been a profoundly fascinating journey. “It has been a much more precise—yet creative process than I imagined,” he remarked, emphasizing how time spent at The Dalmore distillery profoundly influenced his design process and vision.

This collaboration not only represents the culmination of skill and artistry but also showcases how whisky production and architecture can reflect shared values of creativity and dedication to craft. As The Dalmore continues to challenge the boundaries of traditional whisky-making, the partnership with Foster + Partners stands as a testament to their innovative spirit.

As whisky lovers around the globe prepare to bid on The Rare, they also engage in a unique narrative where the worlds of whisky and architecture converge, building a bridge between taste and structure, flavor and form, making this launch truly special.

Stay tuned for further details and upcoming releases from The Dalmore.