Glenmorangie Companta 2014 Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenmorangie Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Extra matured in renowned French wine casks, including Grand Cru casks from Clos de Tart and fortified wine casks from Côtes du Rhône. The fortified wine casks are enhanced with brandy to increase the ABV for taste reasons and durability.
Age Statement: Not specified, but part of Glenmorangie's Private Edition range.
Color & Clarity: The whisky exhibits rich autumnal colors, with notes of dark orange suggested in the description.
Bottle Design: The bottle is part of Glenmorangie's annual Private Collection, designed for collectors. The sample reviewed has a screw cap, but the final bottles are sealed with a cork.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of fruitiness, spiciness, and nuttiness, with a notable absence of peat smoke. The use of French oak casks introduces a significant intensity and spiciness.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky showcases dark fruits like raisins or plums, with a spicy palate redolent of cherries, stewed fruits, sugared plums, blood orange, and rose hip syrup. Notes of milk chocolate, brown sugar, and aromatic nutty oak are also present.
Comparison: Described as very intense for a Glenmorangie, indicating a departure from the typical profile due to the unique cask maturation process.

Anecdotes: The parcel containing the Companta sample was broken during shipment, requiring a second delivery. This story adds a personal touch to the tasting experience.
Trivia: Companta means "friendship" in Scots Gaelic, reflecting the spirit's inspiration from Dr. Bill Lumsden's visits to French vineyards and his appreciation for their dedication to craft.

Historical Context: The Companta edition is the fifth in Glenmorangie's award-winning Private Edition range, showcasing the distillery's innovative approach to whisky making.
Geographical Influence: The use of French wine casks from specific regions (Clos de Tart and Côtes du Rhône) highlights the cultural exchange between Scottish whisky making and French winemaking traditions.

Opinions: Horst Luening, the master taster, expresses a strong preference for the Companta, noting its heavy intensity and complex flavor profile as standout qualities.
Quotes: "Very, very intense for a Glenmorangie," and "I like this one very, very much as I did the private collection before."

Glenmorangie Companta is a unique single malt Scotch whisky, extra matured in French wine casks.
It features a complex flavor profile with dark fruits, spices, and a hint of nuttiness, differing from typical Glenmorangie expressions.
Inspired by Dr. Bill Lumsden's love for French vineyards, Companta embodies the spirit of friendship and craft dedication.
The whisky is part of a limited edition collection, anticipated to become a collector's item.

Wine Enthusiasts: Individuals with a preference for wine might appreciate the influence of French wine casks on the whisky's flavor.
Collectors: Those interested in limited edition whiskies or the Glenmorangie Private Edition range specifically.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: Aficionados looking for a complex and intense flavor profile that deviates from the norm.