Glenmorangie A Midwinter Night's Dram Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Glenmorangie Distillery, Scotland.
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation and Maturation Process: A unique blend of spirits matured in quality casks that previously held bourbon, Oloroso, or sherry. It involves marrying two completely matured whiskies (one in ex-bourbon casks and the other in Oloroso sherry casks) together for the final product.
- Age Statement: No specific age statement, but inferred to be around 6 to 8 years based on tasting notes.
- Color and Clarity: No specific mention of color; however, there's a discussion about the use of coloring in Glenmorangie whiskies, suggesting this whisky might have a natural hue influenced by its maturation casks.
- Bottle Design: Not described in the transcript.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Balance of Flavors: A supreme balance between underlying sweetness and a rich, spicy, nutty top layer.
- Unique Characteristics: Notable for its warming festive notes, including orange marmalade, toffee walnuts, mulled wine, wine-soaked fruit, chocolate orange, ginger, walnuts, and butter candy. The whisky is described as smooth and soft with notes of citrus, vanilla, and almonds.
- Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, it's noted to have a flavor profile that includes elements of classic Glenmorangie Original with additional complexity from the Oloroso sherry casks.
Whisky Storytelling
- Tradition: The tradition of the master distiller at Glenmorangie giving a special whisky to the workforce before Christmas is highlighted. This limited edition is a nod to that tradition, made available to a wider audience.
- Craftsmanship: The dedication, skill, and attention to detail of the 16 men of Tain, the select craftsmen of Glenmorangie, are emphasized as crucial to the whisky's production.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Distillery's Unique Feature: The Glenmorangie distillery is known for having the tallest stills in Scotland, likened to the height of a fully grown adult male giraffe, which contributes to the whisky's distinct character.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "This one is not young; this is mature." - Highlighting the whisky's complexity and depth despite the lack of an age statement.
- "The perfect marriage of these two parcels creates a single malt with a supreme balance between underlying sweetness and a rich spicy nutty top layer." - Emphasizing the harmonious blend of flavors.
Summary
- Glenmorangie A Midwinter Night's Dram is a limited edition single malt Scotch whisky with no specific age statement, estimated to be around 6 to 8 years old.
- It features a blend of whiskies matured in ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, offering a balance of sweetness with a spicy, nutty profile.
- The whisky pays homage to a tradition of gifting special bottles to the distillery's workforce before Christmas.
- It boasts a complex flavor profile with notes of orange marmalade, toffee walnuts, mulled wine, and more.
- The distillery's tall stills contribute to the whisky's unique character.
- Recommended for those interested in a rich, festive whisky with a story, particularly suitable for enjoying on a winter's night.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Whisky Enthusiasts: Individuals with a deep appreciation for Scotch whisky and its traditions will enjoy the rich history and craftsmanship behind this bottle.
- Holiday Season Shoppers: Those looking for a special whisky to gift or enjoy during the winter holidays will find this limited edition appealing.
- Collectors: Given its limited nature and potential for increased collector's value, this whisky is a must-have for collectors looking to add a unique bottle to their selection.
- Beginners with a Sweet Tooth: Newcomers to whisky who enjoy sweet and spicy flavor profiles might find this accessible and enjoyable, especially as a festive treat.