- Distillery: Glenmorangie – Diageo (1843) (Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland)
- Expression: Glenmorangie (“valley of tranquillity”)
- ABV: 40%
- Type: Highland Single Malt
- Cask Profile: Bourbon Cask.
- Tasting Notes: Vanilla, spice and orange.
Glenmorangie Distillery
Founded by William Matheson in 1843, the Highland distillery of Glenmorangie has been producing delicate, elegant single malts that have become iconic.
Tanquil banks of the Dornoch Firth make a fine home for this distillery, sourcing mineral-rich water from the Tarlogie Springs before distilling in Scotland’s tallest copper pot stills, featuring neck heights identical to adult giraffes- which provides enough reason to make the animal the distillery mascot.
Today there are 24 so-called “Distillers of Tain” who are at the head of the whisky craft at Glenmorangie. They are led by Distillery Manager Edward Thom, who won the Global Distillery Manager of the year in 2022 at the prestigious Whisky Magazine Icons of Whisky Awards.
Tasting Notes
Nose: On the nose, Glenmorangie is subtle, sweet, with a hint of spice. You could be mistaken and think this is a simple whisky, with very little complexity – but you’d be wrong.
Palate (Flavour & Texture): On the palate, the whisky is subtle, sweet and super smooth. It’s easy drinking texture allows herbaceous notes of vanilla, honey and peach to wash over the palate. When you’re least expecting it, hits of orange and citrus land with intriguing gravity. An extremely well-balanced whisky that builds upon sweetness to allow its juicy orange notes to pour across your taste buds.
Finish: The lingering notes are of subtle aromatic sweet spice.
The Verdict & Rating
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Who it’s for: Glenmorangie is a whisky for everybody. It’s smooth, subtle, and delightful flavours are clearly defined, perfectly balanced and intriguing. An extremely drinkable whisky.
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Who might pass: At £40, you may expect something a little more niche. For a generic, mass-produced whisky, it is expensive, but it is delicious.
While many will disapprove of a positive review of a Diageo product, I cannot lie – Glenmorangie is delicious. I would absolutely a dram that I will keep in my cabinet for all occasions. It’s perfect for newcomers, and a classic nostalgic favourite to keep the more sophisticated palates happy.
