I remember my first sip of the Glenmorangie Original 10 Year old. It was early on in my whisky journey but it definitely stands out as a smooth and easy drinker - a bottle has been on my shelf ever since. My first time tasting the Glenmorangie 18 Year Old was actually at my engagement party and I have been wanting a bottle ever since, despite not actually acquiring a bottle, it has a very special place in my whisky journey as being one of the first high end and older bottles I have ever tasted. So it is very exciting to hear that Glenmorangie is shaking things up. Let's dive in.
Glenmorangie, the Highland single malt Scotch whisky distillery known for its innovation and exceptional craftsmanship, is raising the bar this year with several exciting releases. From a reimagined classic to bold new additions in their core range, Glenmorangie is bringing a fresh wave of flavors and expressions that showcase both their creativity and dedication to quality. Here’s a closer look at what’s new and why Glenmorangie is capturing the attention of whisky enthusiasts worldwide.
For 180 years, Glenmorangie’s whisky creators have pursued a boundless imagination in crafting their exceptional whiskies. They distill a delicate, fruity spirit in stills as tall as giraffes, allowing ample room for flavor and aroma to develop. This spirit is then matured in some of the world’s finest casks. By meticulously selecting these casks, they achieve a delightful balance of gentle spice paired with Glenmorangie’s hallmark elegance.
A New Era for The Original: Now Aged 12 Years
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Glenmorangie has long been known for “The Original,” their flagship whisky. Crafted in towering stills to enhance taste and aroma, and aged in fine bourbon casks, this signature whisky has been a staple in the world of single malts. Recently, however, Glenmorangie’s Whisky Creation Team decided to explore whether they could elevate this well-loved classic even further. Their experiments showed that by aging The Original for an extra two years (12 instead of 10), they could bring out even more complexity, silkiness, and a fuller, richer taste.
The result, Glenmorangie Original 12 Years Old, captures everything fans love about The Original, but with a new depth and richness. This longer maturation period has amplified the whisky’s signature notes of orange, vanilla, honey, and peach, adding a smoother, creamier texture. The whisky has already earned accolades, including a gold medal at the prestigious World Whiskies Awards 2024. According to Dr. Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie’s Director of Whisky Creation, the 12-year aging process essentially “turns up the volume” on Glenmorangie’s signature flavors.
With bright citrus and soft vanilla on the nose, and a taste that builds from creamy vanilla to hints of ripe peaches and honey, this reimagined classic is a testament to Glenmorangie’s commitment to constant innovation. Fans of Glenmorangie will appreciate how the Original 12 Years Old stays true to its roots while offering an enhanced drinking experience. This release is set to appeal to both long-time enthusiasts and newcomers seeking a refined, smooth single malt.
Glenmorangie Triple Cask Reserve: Adding Spice to the Core Range
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For those who crave a more robust and spiced whisky, Glenmorangie has also unveiled the Triple Cask Reserve. This new addition to Glenmorangie’s core range takes inspiration from the rugged Highlands that surround the distillery. The Whisky Creation Team brought together bourbon, new charred oak, and rye whiskey casks to craft a whisky that is rich, balanced, and brimming with a variety of flavors. The use of rye casks—a rare choice in Scotch whisky production—gives the Triple Cask Reserve a unique twist that differentiates it from the typical single malts.
The tasting experience of the Triple Cask Reserve is a true journey, with layers of fruity sweetness, spice, and creamy richness. Aged initially in bourbon casks for its fruity, smooth base, the whisky is then matured further in new charred oak casks to bring out a fuller body and added depth. Finally, the influence of rye whiskey casks adds a subtle spice and dry finish, with notes of clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon weaving through its flavors.
On the nose, this whisky presents aromas of pear, honeysuckle, and candied orange peel, with hints of clove and nutmeg. The taste is complex and layered, featuring creamy vanilla, maple syrup, and a touch of cherry chocolate. With its sweet, spicy finish, Glenmorangie Triple Cask Reserve is designed to be enjoyed neat, on ice, or in cocktails, making it a versatile addition for any occasion. Master Blender Gillian Macdonald highlights the “deep harmony” of this expression, emphasizing the balance of sweetness and spice that characterizes the Triple Cask Reserve.
The 18-Year-Old Glenmorangie Infinita: Complex Flavors with a Luxurious New Look
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Adding to the excitement Glenmorangie unveils a captivating new look and name for its celebrated 18-year-old whisky, now known as Glenmorangie Infinita 18 Years Old. This Highland single malt Scotch whisky is reimagined to highlight its vast array of flavors, bringing a fresh perspective to the brand’s luxury flagship. With delicate floral notes intertwined with honey, rich dried fruits, and a hint of spice, Infinita is praised by its creator as Glenmorangie’s most intricate and harmoniously balanced whisky.
Guided by the vision of Dr. Bill Lumsden, Director of Whisky Creation, Glenmorangie’s team passionately explores new horizons in flavor. Years ago, with a desire to create the ultimate Glenmorangie, Dr. Bill first introduced The Infinita, a fragrant and layered whisky that has captivated connoisseurs and garnered numerous awards.
This whisky is known for its exceptional complexity, and the new name, packaging, and refined bottle design are meant to reflect its “infinite deliciousness.” With a deep, honeyed gold color and rich aromatic profile, Glenmorangie Infinita is a blend of elegance, fruity sweetness, and hints of luxurious spice.
To achieve this depth, the whisky is initially aged for 15 years in American oak bourbon casks, imparting notes of honey and soft fruitiness. A portion of this whisky is then transferred to Oloroso sherry casks for an additional three years. After 18 years, the whiskies are carefully blended, resulting in a single malt with intricate layers of flavor. Each sip of Glenmorangie Infinita promises a unique tasting experience—one that could change subtly each time.
The aroma of Infinita brings together floral hints of jasmine and honeysuckle with caramelized orange and dried fruit. On the palate, one finds flavors of figs, dates, and a hint of wood smoke, balanced by a rich, almost oily texture that coats the mouth. The finish is long, enticing, and marked by a blend of dried fruit sweetness and subtle Oloroso sherry notes. Dr. Bill Lumsden calls Infinita “the epitome of Glenmorangie’s house style in perfect harmony,” noting that its depth and complexity make it seem as if each sip offers something new.
The whisky’s packaging matches its luxurious taste. Its vibrant blue gift box, adorned with an elegant infinity symbol, and copper-toned label on the bottle are nods to Glenmorangie’s copper stills. The new design and name are set to captivate whisky lovers, while the quality of Glenmorangie Infinita remains as high as ever.
Why Glenmorangie’s New Releases Are Worth a Try
Glenmorangie has made it clear this year that they are all about pushing boundaries and reimagining what their whiskies can be. From The Original 12 Years Old’s elevated smoothness to the rich, spiced complexity of Triple Cask Reserve, and the timeless elegance of Infinita, Glenmorangie’s recent releases showcase a distillery that is deeply committed to both tradition and innovation.
Each of these releases brings something unique to the table, making Glenmorangie a brand to watch—and taste. Whether it’s the creamy vanilla and citrus of The Original 12, the bold spice of the Triple Cask Reserve, or the endlessly complex flavors of Infinita, whisky lovers have plenty to look forward to from Glenmorangie.
About Glenmorangie’s Whisky Creators
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Glenmorangie’s Whisky Creation Team lives by the motto “What if?”, continually pushing themselves to transform whatever inspires them into unique whiskies—whether it’s the memory of a beloved destination (like A Tale of Tokyo) or the essence of a coffee experience (Glenmorangie Signet).
Leading the team is Dr. Bill Lumsden, Director of Whisky Creation, who brings a PhD in biochemistry and decades of expertise to the table. His remarkable skill has earned him wide recognition, including an induction into the Icons of Whisky Hall of Fame. Dr. Bill has also set a record by winning the Master Distiller of the Year title from the International Whisky Competition more times than anyone else and has twice been awarded Master Blender/Distiller of the Year by the International Spirits Challenge.
Dr. Bill works closely with Gillian Macdonald, Glenmorangie’s Master Blender. Known for blending art and science, Gillian oversees the sensory analysis of the new-make spirit, manages core range recipes, and coordinates the Company’s sensory panel. She also leads New Product Development, involving the annual nosing of hundreds of casks to craft the final recipes for Glenmorangie’s exceptional whisky lineup.
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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.
Learn more on the Glenmorangie's website.
