Glenmorangie - 18 Year Old Single Malt (750ml)

Glenmorangie 18 Years Old is a specially aged, rare, malt scotch whisky of distinction. With a rich bouquet and full, rounded flavour, it appeals to the luxury spirits drinker who appreciates serious quality. Slowly matured for 15 years in the finest ex-bourbon oak casks, a proportion is transferred to Spanish Oloroso sherry casks for the final 3 years of maturation. It has a silky, smooth texture, a long, enticing finish and an intriguing balance of sweet dried fruit and a dry Oloroso nuttiness.

The initial whiffs find layers of honey, flowers and light toffee; air contact stimulates aromas of pine needle, caramel, nougat, marzipan, chocolate orange and stewed apple. The palate entry is totally dry then turns bittersweet and pork rind-like; at midpalate tastes of burnt apple crisp, orange zest, fudge and candied nuts appear. Finishes as grandly and stately as it began. Score: 90-95. December 01, 2004.