Glenmorangie, a distinguished name in the world of Scotch whisky, has once again captured the essence of creativity and nature with their latest limited edition release. This time, the iconic brand has collaborated with the celebrated Japanese botanical artist, Azuma Makoto, to produce the Glenmorangie Dr Bill Lumsden x Azuma Makoto 23 Years Old. This unique expression is rooted in the Japanese philosophy of ‘shinra bansho’, which signifies the totality of nature – from the ground beneath our feet to the sky above and everything that lies between.
Dr. Bill Lumsden, the innovative director of whisky creation at Glenmorangie, has crafted this 23-year-old single malt using a blend of traditional techniques and new, daring approaches. The whisky has been aged in bourbon barrels, a staple in the world of Scotch maturation, but what sets this release apart is its finishing in Chardonnay white wine casks from the Meursault appellation in Burgundy. This marks a first for Glenmorangie, as they have never utilized such casks before. This final maturation step has imparted the whisky with a distinctive profile, characterized by notes reminiscent of moss dampened by rainfall, burning oak, and the earthy, rich scents of the forest floor.
The sensory journey of this whisky is complemented by Azuma Makoto’s botanical artistry. Azuma, a Tokyo-based artist known for his stunning floral installations, has created a piece that perfectly echoes the natural inspiration of the whisky. His sculpture, titled ‘Shinra Bansho’, is an intricate blend of orchids, roses, and Scottish wildflowers interwoven with tree bark, roots, and moss. This artwork is prominently featured on the whisky’s packaging, serving as a visual representation of the complex and natural flavors encapsulated within the bottle.
Dr. Lumsden expressed his enthusiasm about this collaboration, stating, “Our collaboration with Azuma Makoto is a delicious celebration of nature’s wonder. Including our first whisky finished in Chardonnay casks from Burgundy, this 23-year-old single malt encapsulates nature in all its forms, through notes of lemon balsam, poached pears, and cocoa powder layered on the oaky, earthy tones of the forest floor. Azuma-san’s stunning sculpture, featured on the whisky’s packaging, evokes the fragrant scents and elemental depths of this extraordinarily rare whisky – a gift from nature itself.”
Azuma Makoto shared his thoughts on this creative endeavor, saying, “I was honoured to partner with Dr Bill for this special celebration of shinra bansho. My sculpture is a response to my view of earth’s blessings – my sense of gratitude for nature – and for the flavour of the Highlands, expressed deliciously in Dr Bill’s whisky.”
The Glenmorangie Dr Bill Lumsden x Azuma Makoto 23 Years Old is more than just a whisky; it’s an ode to nature and the intricate beauty found within it. This limited edition whisky will be available in select prestigious retailers across the UK, China, Japan, Taiwan, India, and the USA. Additionally, it will be offered at the Glenmorangie boutique at London Heathrow Terminal 2 and online at glenmorangie.com. With a price tag of £1,050 (approximately US$1,332), this release is poised to attract whisky connoisseurs and collectors who have a deep appreciation for both fine spirits and exquisite artistry.
This collaboration is part of a broader trend at Glenmorangie, where they have continually explored and celebrated Japanese culture and craftsmanship. In 2023, the distillery released ‘A Tale of Tokyo’, a whisky matured in mizunara oak casks and adorned with label art by Japanese artist Yamaguchi Akira. Furthermore, this latest release marks the second collaboration between Glenmorangie and Azuma Makoto, following the success of an 18-year-old limited edition single malt launched in 2021.
In essence, the Glenmorangie Dr Bill Lumsden x Azuma Makoto 23 Years Old is a testament to the harmonious blend of nature, art, and whisky-making expertise. It embodies the spirit of ‘shinra bansho’, celebrating the diverse and intricate wonders of nature through both its complex flavor profile and its visually stunning packaging. This release not only highlights Glenmorangie’s commitment to innovation and creativity but also reinforces their dedication to crafting whiskies that are as unique and inspiring as the natural world itself.
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.