Glenmorangie Unveils First Calvados Cask Finish as 12-Year-Old Small Batch Whisky – Scotch Whisky News
Glenmorangie, the Highland single malt Scotch whisky distillery, has unveiled its latest creation: the Glenmorangie Calvados Cask Finish. This release marks a significant milestone as it is the first time Glenmorangie has finished its whisky in French Calvados casks, adding a unique twist to its 12-Year-Old small batch whisky collection.
The Glenmorangie Calvados Cask Finish is the fifth installment in the Distillery’s Barrel Select Release series, which focuses on exploring the distinct flavors that emerge from various cask finishes. This new expression promises a sensory journey with its blend of jasmine, baked apples, and pears, adding fresh layers to Glenmorangie’s signature fruity tones.
Led by the esteemed Director of Whisky Creation, Dr. Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie’s whisky makers are celebrated for their innovation and commitment to crafting exceptional single malt whiskies. Dr. Bill’s inspiration for the Calvados Cask Finish came from his fascination with the soft, orchard notes found in Calvados, a French spirit distilled from apples and sometimes pears.
Intrigued by the potential synergy between Calvados casks and Glenmorangie’s elegant style, Dr. Bill embarked on an experimental journey. He transferred whisky aged for over a decade in American white oak bourbon casks into Calvados du Pays d’Auge casks from Normandy, France, which had aged Calvados for two decades. The result is a soft and rich whisky that harmonizes mellow fruits of baked apples and pears with delicate hints of jasmine, narcissus, and vanilla.
Reflecting on this innovative creation, Dr. Bill remarked, “Glenmorangie Calvados Finish is a wonderful addition to our Barrel Select Release series of small-batch single malts. Entwining scents of baked pears, vanilla, and jasmine with tastes of toffee apples, lemon balsam, and spice, this rare whisky takes all that is good about Glenmorangie, to richly delicious new heights.”
The Glenmorangie Calvados Cask Finish exemplifies the distillery’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional whisky experiences. As whisky enthusiasts eagerly anticipate its release, this latest expression promises to captivate palates with its distinctive flavor profile and meticulous craftsmanship.