Glenmorangie, a name synonymous with premium Scotch whisky, has taken a bold step in redefining its flagship product. The renowned distillery, owned by Moët Hennessy, has decided to retire its iconic 10-Year-Old whisky and introduce a new 12-Year-Old expression. This significant change marks a new chapter for the distillery, which has been crafting fine whisky for over 175 years.
Image credit: Glenmorangie
The story of Glenmorangie's Original 10-Year-Old whisky dates back to the 1960s, when it first became the signature single malt of the distillery. For decades, this light, smooth dram has been the go-to choice for many whisky enthusiasts, offering a delightful introduction to the world of Scotch whisky. However, the innovative team at Glenmorangie, led by Dr. Bill Lumsden, Director of Whisky Creation, believed there was potential to enhance this beloved expression even further.
Dr. Lumsden, who first encountered Glenmorangie whisky in 1984 while studying for his PhD in Edinburgh, has always had a deep appreciation for the complexity and richness of the distillery's offerings. “I'll never forget my first magical sip and how I became beguiled by its complex range of flavours,” he reminisced. This memorable experience has been a guiding force in his career, driving him to maintain the high standards of Glenmorangie's whisky.
Image credit: Glenmorangie
Recently, Dr. Lumsden and his team embarked on an ambitious project: to reimagine The Original 10-Year-Old whisky. They posed a simple yet profound question: “What if we keep it in the cask for another two years?” This curiosity led to a series of experiments and tastings, ultimately revealing that the additional aging period resulted in a whisky that was smoother, creamier, and more complex than its predecessor.
The result of this experimentation is The Original 12 Years Old. According to Dr. Lumsden, the extra two years in the cask have elevated the whisky's flavor profile, enhancing the classic notes of orange, vanilla, peach, and honey that Glenmorangie is famous for. “The result is The Original 12 Years Old! Smoother, creamier and even more complex, I like to think it ‘turns up the volume’ on our signature whisky’s classic notes,” he explained.
Image credit: Glenmorangie
This new 12-Year-Old expression has already garnered significant acclaim, winning a gold medal at the World Whiskies Awards 2024. This prestigious award underscores the quality and craftsmanship that have gone into creating this new whisky, setting a high bar for its reception among whisky connoisseurs.
Priced at £40 (US$51), just £1 more than the 10-Year-Old Original, The Original 12 Years Old offers an exceptional value for an enhanced whisky experience. The new expression is available for purchase online, at the distillery’s visitor center in Tain, and will be rolled out to select retailers across the UK in August 2024.
The decision to age the whisky for an additional two years is rooted in Glenmorangie's long-standing tradition of innovation and excellence. For over 180 years, the distillery’s whisky makers have been dedicated to exploring new ways to create delicious, high-quality whisky. They use stills as tall as a giraffe, which allows for more space for taste and aroma, resulting in a delicate and fruity spirit that is characteristic of Glenmorangie's house style.
The Original 12-Year-Old retains the familiar packaging and branding of its predecessor, ensuring that fans will still recognize the iconic Glenmorangie look. However, it is the taste that truly sets it apart. The additional aging has imparted a new level of silkiness, sweetness, and complexity to the whisky, making it a more refined and sophisticated version of the classic 10-Year-Old.
Glenmorangie’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in this latest release. By reimagining their flagship whisky, they have created a product that not only honors the distillery’s rich heritage but also pushes the boundaries of what their whisky can be. The Original 12 Years Old is a testament to Glenmorangie’s dedication to continuous improvement and their passion for crafting exceptional whisky.
In conclusion, the introduction of Glenmorangie’s 12-Year-Old Original marks a significant milestone for the distillery. It represents a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, offering a smoother, creamier, and more complex whisky that enhances the classic notes that fans have come to love. With its competitive price and already impressive accolades, The Original 12 Years Old is set to become a new favorite among whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
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About Glenmorangie Distillery
Glenmorangie Distillery, located in Tain, Scotland, is renowned for producing some of the world's most elegant and complex single malt Scotch whiskies. Founded in 1843, Glenmorangie has a rich history spanning nearly two centuries. The distillery is situated in the Scottish Highlands, an area known for its pristine natural environment and abundant natural resources, including pure spring water and barley.
Glenmorangie is celebrated for its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, particularly in the realm of whisky maturation. The distillery boasts the tallest stills in Scotland, which contribute to the light and floral character of its whiskies. Additionally, Glenmorangie is known for its use of a variety of cask types for aging, including ex-bourbon barrels, sherry butts, and wine casks, allowing the whiskies to develop complex and nuanced flavors over time.
One of Glenmorangie's most iconic expressions is its Original 10 Year Old single malt, which serves as the foundation of the brand's portfolio. This whisky is characterized by its smoothness, citrusy notes, and hints of vanilla, making it an approachable and versatile choice for both novice and seasoned whisky drinkers alike.
In addition to its core range, Glenmorangie offers a variety of limited-edition and special-release whiskies, showcasing the distillery's creativity and experimentation. These expressions often feature unique cask finishes or innovative aging techniques, providing whisky enthusiasts with an opportunity to explore new flavor profiles and experiences.
Glenmorangie's commitment to quality and innovation has earned it numerous awards and accolades over the years, solidifying its reputation as one of the leading single malt Scotch whisky producers in the world. The distillery's picturesque location, coupled with its dedication to traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques, makes Glenmorangie a destination for whisky enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable tasting experience. Whether enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or in cocktails, Glenmorangie whiskies offer a journey of discovery and delight for the senses.
