Glenmorangie Original - New Design 10 Years | Whisky Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Glenmorangie Distillery, Scotland.
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation & Maturation: Distilled in Glenmorangie's tall stills and matured in first and second fill bourbon casks. Glenmorangie has a policy of using their casks only once or twice.
- Age Statement: 10 years.
- Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the emphasis on bourbon cask maturation suggests a light, golden hue typical of such whiskies.
- Bottle Design: Recently updated, part of a broader design refresh by Glenmorangie. The specific details of the new design were not described, but the change invites opinions and comparisons to the old design.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- General Tasting Notes: Fruity and tropical, with specific notes of pineapple, mango, citrus, vanilla, and a hint of banana. The bourbon cask maturation contributes to the vanilla and caramel flavors.
- Balance of Flavors: Described as very pleasant and enjoyable, with a fresh, fruity profile complemented by the sweetness and character from bourbon cask maturation.
- Unique Characteristics: The tropical fruit profile is notably enhanced by Glenmorangie's distillation process and fermentation recipe, setting it apart as an everyday, approachable whisky.
Whisky Storytelling
- Distillation Process: Emphasis on the unique shape of Glenmorangie's stills and their impact on the whisky's character.
- Fermentation Recipe: The combination of malt, yeast, timing, and temperature during fermentation is credited with creating the whisky's tropical fruit flavors.
- Anecdotes: The host recalls tasting the wash directly from the washbacks during a distillery tour, highlighting the creation of fruity flavors before distillation.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Northern Distilleries: Glenmorangie is characterized as a "northern" distillery, with a mention of the citrus character common in whiskies from the north of Scotland. This regional style is attributed to historical practices and the heritage of flavor in the area.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "It's very pleasant, it's very nice, it's fruity and very tropical."
- "Nice entry-style whiskey that you can enjoy neat, can enjoy very easily, beginner-friendly."
Summary
- Glenmorangie Original is a 10-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in first and second fill bourbon casks.
- The whisky is known for its tropical fruit flavor profile, with notes of pineapple, mango, citrus, vanilla, and banana.
- The distillation and fermentation processes at Glenmorangie are key to its unique flavor.
- The whisky's design has been updated, fitting into a broader refresh by the distillery.
- Glenmorangie Original is described as an approachable, beginner-friendly whisky, ideal for everyday enjoyment.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Beginners: Due to its approachable and pleasant flavor profile, Glenmorangie Original is highly recommended for those new to whisky.
- Everyday Whisky Enthusiasts: Individuals looking for a consistently enjoyable, fruity, and tropical whisky for regular consumption.
- Scotch Whisky Collectors: Those interested in experiencing the impact of distillation and maturation techniques unique to Glenmorangie, or looking to compare the new bottle design with previous versions.