While many Scotch whiskies proudly display their age, some, like the one I’m about to discuss, focus on innovative concepts rather than age statements. Although the exact age of this whisky remains undisclosed, some experts estimate it to be around 10-12 years old. This particular bottle is the third release in Glenmorangie’s annual series, which explores themes beyond mere aging.

This release, named “Tale of the Forest,” showcases Glenmorangie’s distinctive approach under the guidance of Dr. Bill Lumsden. This single malt features a unique twist: The barley used was dried (“kilned”) with a blend of juniper, birch bark and heather flowers. This method harks back to ancient practices used in beer production, infusing the barley with the essence of these woodland botanicals. Much like how peat smoke imparts character to whisky, these botanicals provide a new dimension to the spirit. While it maintains the brand’s hallmark depth, complexity and mineral notes, it introduces an array of aromas and flavors that transport you far from the town of Tain, where Glenmorangie is located.

Founded in 1843, Glenmorangie is one of the leading names in single malt Scotch whisky, boasting an annual production capacity exceeding 6 million liters. As a part of the LVMH group (Moët Hennessy and Louis Vuitton), Glenmorangie stands as a titan in the Scotch world, renowned for its volume, reputation and global reach.

In an industry often rooted in tradition, Glenmorangie stands out for its relentless pursuit of innovation. Their portfolio, featuring an impressive array of ages and cask maturations, reflects a commitment to experimental distilling that has consistently produced extraordinary results. “A Tale of the Forest” exemplifies this balance between progress and tradition, merging cutting-edge techniques with age-old practices to create a whisky that is both groundbreaking and deeply connected to Glenmorangie’s heritage.

It further proves that exploring new frontiers in whisky production does not have to be alienating or exclusive. Instead, it highlights how such experimentation can captivate both dedicated whisky aficionados and those with a more casual interest in the spirit. By bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, Glenmorangie has crafted a whisky that is as adventurous as it is accessible, showcasing their exceptional ability to push boundaries while honoring their roots. This innovative approach is a testament to the distillery’s pioneering spirit and is truly deserving of celebration.

Nose:

The bottle’s name says it all, evoking a rich, earthy aroma with woodsy undertones. It boasts vibrant herbal and floral notes, enhanced by subtle hints of soft, woody smoke.

Palate:

The flavors begin rich and dark with hints of fig, blackberry and dark chocolate. It evolves to reveal a balanced sweetness of vanilla, cinnamon and subtle hibiscus. The overall profile is earthy, and lightly herbal, creating a wonderfully complex and satisfying experience.

Finish:

An interesting array of woody notes mingles with floral hints, followed by spices, caramel and fruity elements. Candied citrus fruits finish, while robust barley and delicate oak char lead to a lasting trace of pine.

Final Thoughts:

As I savor this exceptional glass of Glenmorangie, taking it in with slow sips and long sniffs, I find myself struggling to identify a similar scotch in my extensive tasting experience. The uniqueness of this expression is striking and remarkable. The flavors are unusually distinctive, with subtle cask influences that highlight the distillate beautifully. The intriguing blend of fruits, herbs and floral notes makes this whisky a compelling choice for those who have the time to explore its complexities. Dr. Bill has truly knocked it out of the park with this one!

As of 2010, several bottles of Glenmorangie have received kosher certification from the Orthodox Union (OU), the world’s largest and most esteemed kosher certification agency. Brian Cox, Glenmorangie U.S. brand director, remarked, “At Glenmorangie, we take great pride in producing Scotland’s favorite single malt whisky. The OU kosher certification will introduce our iconic brand to a new consumer base that can now enjoy our products.” While many Scotch whiskies are naturally free of non-kosher ingredients, the OU certification provides an added level of assurance for observant Jews. Kosher Scotch can vary in flavor and style just like any other Scotch whisky, ranging from peaty and smoky to smooth and rich.

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