Whisky- Glenmorangie “Original”
Complexity-Hard
Type- Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 10 years old, 40% ABV
Appearance- a warm and inviting mix of Fino Sherry and Chardonnay. The tears are medium slow-moving and are just as thick. No visible impurities.
Aroma- sweet sweet sweet. A very inviting and refreshing nose filled with sweet smells and happiness. I am first entranced with honey which quickly allows sweet bread/malt to come through in a healthy dose. Admittedly my weakest area of experience is in the floral department, and while I catch wisps of something floral, I am not currently of the ability to describe them other than I know they are there.
Taste- Summer honey which is clean, crisp, and smooth. If happiness could be bottled, it would be in this, and jubilation would most certainly find itself in the Glenmorangie “Nectar D’Or,” but that is for another entry. So again I have noticed something floral, but I am not able to pick out the specifics. The malt plays a bigger role in the mouth than on the nose and makes an obvious appearance but is not overbearing. I can tell you there is a pleasant interplay between subtle citrus flavors with those of vanilla. Accompanying the citrus and vanilla underneath is a presence of nut flavors and fleeting hints of wood. Last but not least, I was able to find green grapes happily playing with the honey making for a truly entertaining whisky. The mouth feel was just as light but not delicate and was pleasantly coating.
With Water- I never took notice of the alcohol before the water, and with it, it all but disappears. The sweet flavors are more defined while the nut and oak come out more.
Finish- a little shorter than I wanted. Sweet continues to be the theme and follows through to the end. The honey, malt, citrus, vanilla are all present along with the nut being more defined now as almond. The wood fades away and is almost not present being replaced by unexpected spices. An ever so slight hint of nutmeg makes and appearance along with a barely noticeable touch of pepper.
Verdict- Again
If I want something to make me happy when I drink it, it will be this. Smooth, pleasant, and enjoyable, it’s hard not to have fun with it. This most certainly will finish off any meal and is a great way to experience a lighter yet complex Scotch.
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