Glenmorangie Original 10 Years Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Northern Highlands, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Whisky.
Distillation: Utilizes the tallest whisky stills in Scotland, standing at six meters high (approximately 18 feet), which aids in separating alcohol and fusel oils effectively, resulting in a smoother whisky.
Maturation: Matured in the finest bourbon oak casks, with a shift from using casks three times to only first and second fills, enhancing quality. The casks are crafted from slow-growth, air-seasoned wood from hand-selected oak trees in the Ozark Mountains, Missouri.
Age Statement: 10 years.
Color and Clarity: The whisky is colored with spirit caramel to even out batch variations. It is chill-filtered and presented at 40% ABV.
Bottle Design: The packaging emphasizes "The Original" prominently, with the age statement in smaller print. The design suggests a focus on the whisky's status as the flagship product of Glenmorangie.

Dominant Flavors: Citrus, with a notable presence of cooling mint and a variety of fruits.
Balance of Flavors: Starts with a slightly weak presence due to the 40% ABV but gains complexity with a kick of spice, sweetness, and a variety of fruit notes including tangerine, apple, pears, and peaches.
Unique Characteristics: The tall stills contribute to a smooth and mild flavor profile, with a distinctive citrus note indicative of Northern Highlands whiskies. The maturation process in bespoke casks adds depth and complexity.

Distillery History: Glenmorangie has been producing whisky since 1843, maintaining its reputation for elegance and complexity.
The Sixteen Men of Tain: Historically, the distillery was known for having sixteen men working within, though the current number involved in production may vary.
Name Origin: "Glenmorangie" translates to "Valley of Tranquillity" in Gaelic, reflecting the distillery's serene location by the Dornoch Firth.

Glenmorangie is the most often sold single malt whisky in Scotland, highlighting its popularity and significance within Scottish whisky culture.
The distillery's location in the Northern Highlands, north of Tain, and its use of mineral-rich water from its own Tarlogie Springs, contribute to its unique flavor profile and identity.

Horst Luening describes Glenmorangie Original as a "mass compatible single malt whisky" that is smooth, mild, and not too intense, making it comparable in intensity to a blended whisky but with more character.
The citrus flavor is highlighted as a defining characteristic of Northern Highlands whiskies.

Glenmorangie Original 10 Years is a single malt whisky from the Northern Highlands of Scotland, known for its smooth, mild, and fruit-dominant flavor profile.
The distillery uses the tallest stills in Scotland and matures the whisky in bespoke bourbon oak casks for 10 years.
The whisky is described as having a perfect balance of sweetness and complexity, with a notable citrus and mint flavor profile.
Glenmorangie has a rich history and cultural significance, being the most sold single malt in Scotland and having a name that reflects its peaceful setting.

For Beginners: Its smooth, mild, and not overly intense flavor profile makes it an excellent introduction to single malt whiskies.
For Whisky Enthusiasts: The unique maturation process and the use of the tallest stills in Scotland offer an interesting study in the impact of distillation and cask selection on flavor.
For Collectors: The significance of Glenmorangie as a flagship product and its popularity in Scotland might make it a worthy addition to a collection, especially for those interested in iconic Scottish whiskies.