Glenmorangie - A Tale of the Forest | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenmorangie, Scotland
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in ex-bourbon casks, with a unique drying process of the malt involving woodland botanicals such as juniper berries, birch bark, and heather blossom, instead of the traditional peat smoke.
Age Statement: No age statement provided.
ABV: 46%
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but implied to be clear.
Bottle Design: The bottle comes in a box designed by Thai artist Pom Chan, known for her paintings, making it a collector's item.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of fruity, floral, and smoky notes with a spicy and peppery taste that is unusual for Glenmorangie.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky features a light smokiness with a maximum of 10 ppm, sweet malt, biscuit, floral notes, and a forest smell of wet, damp forest. The alcohol adds a touch of coolness, reminiscent of mint, with a very soft smokiness that becomes slightly more intense.
Comparison: Compared to other Glenmorangie expressions, this whisky is noted for its stronger spicy notes, similar to those found in the 18-year-old version, but with a unique profile due to the botanical drying process.

Production Process: The whisky showcases an ancient method of kilning barley with botanicals, a technique that diverges from Glenmorangie's typical use of peat, offering a unique twist on the distillery's traditional practices.
Artist Collaboration: The collaboration with artist Pom Chan for the bottle's packaging adds a layer of artistic storytelling, connecting the whisky to themes of nature and forest.

Botanical Influence: The use of botanicals for drying the malt draws on practices similar to those used in gin production, but uniquely applied to whisky, showcasing an innovative approach within the Scottish whisky tradition.
Distillery Character: Glenmorangie's use of the tallest pot stills in Scotland is highlighted as a key factor in the whisky's distinct flavor profile, emphasizing the brand's commitment to quality and innovation.

Horst Luening's Impressions: Luening expresses surprise and appreciation for the whisky's flavor profile, noting its untypical characteristics for a Glenmorangie. He mentions a personal dislike for juniper but finds the whisky enjoyable, indicating its appeal even to those who might not typically enjoy botanical influences.

Glenmorangie's "A Tale of the Forest" is a special release single malt Scotch whisky, matured in ex-bourbon casks and featuring a unique malt drying process with woodland botanicals.
The whisky offers a complex flavor profile with light smokiness, sweet malt, biscuit, floral notes, and a distinctive forest aroma, balanced with spicy and peppery tastes.
The collaboration with artist Pom Chan for the packaging adds a collectible aspect to the whisky.
The use of botanicals and the tallest pot stills in Scotland are key to the whisky's unique character, showcasing Glenmorangie's innovative approach to whisky production.
Horst Luening's review highlights the whisky's unexpected and enjoyable flavor profile, making it a noteworthy addition to Glenmorangie's range, even for those who may not typically enjoy botanical influences.

Whisky Collectors: The unique bottle design and limited edition nature make it a must-have.
Gin Enthusiasts: Those interested in botanical flavors but looking to explore whisky might find this an intriguing crossover.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: Individuals seeking something different from the typical Glenmorangie profile will appreciate the unique botanical influence and complex flavor profile.
New Whisky Drinkers: May find the botanical approach and the absence of heavy smokiness a more accessible entry point into Scotch whisky.