Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban Port Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenmorangie Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Initially matured for 10 years in bourbon casks, followed by extra maturation in Ruby Port pipes.
Age Statement: 12 years.
Color & Clarity: Uncolored, with a distinctive red hue, indicating the influence of the Ruby Port pipes.
Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but it's implied that the bottle's appearance reflects the premium nature of the whisky, distinguishing it from cheaper, colored variants within the Glenmorangie range.

Balance of Flavors: A complex balance of dark, mature fruits like figs and dates, with a backdrop of sandalwood and aromatic wood notes. The whisky is described as hefty, dark, and full, with a smooth integration of alcohol (46% ABV).
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its absence of sweetness, instead presenting a rich profile of bitter chocolate, wood, and a hint of spiciness. The texture is described as silky smooth, with a progression of flavors from juicy clementine to intense woody notes, and a cooling mint or eucalyptus finish.
Comparison: It's more intense and darker than the La Santa variant from Glenmorangie, which is smoother, fruitier, and sweeter.

Historical Anecdote: The Quinta Ruban has a significant history, being part of Glenmorangie's pioneering venture into finished whiskies in the 1990s. It succeeded an earlier Portwood finish, marking it as a whisky with a long and esteemed heritage within the extra-matured range.

Name Origin: "Quinta Ruban" is Gaelic for "ruby red," hinting at the Ruby Port pipes used for extra maturation. This name reflects both the whisky's color and its flavor profile, deeply influenced by its unique maturation process.

Personal Favorites: The hosts express a strong preference for the Quinta Ruban, highlighting its complex flavor profile and smooth texture. It's mentioned as one of the favorites for a long time.
Market Insights: Discussion about Glenmorangie's approach to coloring in their whiskies, indicating a market-driven decision-making process regarding the presentation of their products.

Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban is a 12-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, matured in bourbon casks and finished in Ruby Port pipes.
It features a complex, dark flavor profile with notes of mature fruits, bitter chocolate, and a hint of mint, without any sweetness.
The whisky has a significant history, being part of Glenmorangie's pioneering finished whiskies from the 1990s.
"Quinta Ruban" signifies the ruby red influence of the Port pipes on both the color and flavor of the whisky.
The hosts highly regard the Quinta Ruban, especially for those who enjoy a complex, chocolatey flavor profile.

For Chocolate Lovers: Individuals who enjoy the rich flavors of chocolate, nuts, and mint in their whisky will find the Quinta Ruban particularly appealing.
Intermediate Whisky Enthusiasts: The smooth yet complex profile makes it suitable for those with some experience in whisky tasting, looking to explore finished whiskies.
Collectors and History Buffs: Given its historical significance as one of the first finished whiskies from Scotland, it may also attract collectors and those interested in the evolution of whisky maturation techniques.