Glenmorangie Signet Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Glenmorangie Distillery, established in 1843.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: The whisky is matured in special American white oak casks from the Ozark Mountains, which are known for their slow growth and thin rings, imparting unique flavors. It is then finished in sherry casks, likely Oloroso, adding to its dark color. The use of roasted malt is a distinctive feature, contributing to its chocolate malt profile.
Age Statement: NAS (No Age Statement), designed intentionally to achieve a specific flavor profile rather than due to stock limitations.
Color and Clarity: Dark color, enhanced by the addition of spirit caramel to standardize the appearance across batches.
Bottle Design: Features a heavy bottle with a thick bottom and golden offset print. The design includes an emblem found on an ancient Celtic or Pictish standing stone, which has been adopted as the coat of arms for the distillery since 2004. The bottle's color gradient from clear to dark adds elegance.

Balance of Flavors: A well-designed whisky with a balance of dark fruits, oak, spices, and a hint of vanilla. The use of roasted malt contributes to a chocolate profile.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its smoothness, with no sharpness in the nose, suggesting careful distillation. The flavor evolves from dark fruits and ginger to juice oranges, with a light, friendly spiciness and a finish of milk coffee and toffee.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its unique use of roasted malt and specific cask finishing techniques set it apart.

Anecdotes: The Signet emblem, derived from an ancient standing stone, symbolizes the distillery's heritage and connection to the land. The whisky represents nearly two centuries of craft, emphasizing the transmission of knowledge and tradition within the distillery.
Trivia: The Glenmorangie Signet is noted for being a designed whisky, aiming for a specific taste profile through its innovative use of casks and malt, rather than being a selection of existing casks.

Historical Context: The Glenmorangie Distillery's long history since 1843 and its location in the Highlands contribute to the whisky's identity. The use of local barley and water from the Tarlogie Springs adds a layer of geographical significance.
Cultural References: The adoption of the Signet emblem as the distillery's coat of arms ties the whisky to Scotland's ancient history and cultural heritage.

Opinions: Horst Luening, the mastertaster, praises the Glenmorangie Signet as a "wonderful piece of work," highlighting its designed flavor profile and the craftsmanship involved in its creation.
Quotes: "A masterpiece 170 years in the making... It takes time and dedication to create a great masterpiece."

Glenmorangie Signet is a NAS single malt Scotch whisky, matured in American white oak and finished in sherry casks.
Features a unique flavor profile with roasted chocolate malt, dark fruits, spices, and a hint of vanilla.
The whisky's design emphasizes innovation and tradition, with a focus on achieving a specific taste.
Cultural and geographical significance is highlighted through the distillery's history and the use of local ingredients.
Highly praised by the mastertaster for its craftsmanship and designed flavor profile.

Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in the craftsmanship behind whisky making and the innovative use of casks and malt.
Gift Seekers: Ideal for a special gift due to its elegant bottle design and the significance of its emblem.
Flavor Chasers: Individuals seeking a unique flavor profile with a balance of sweetness, spice, and smoothness.