The Original is the flagship single malt Scotch whisky from the Glenmorangie Distillery in the Highlands. Matured in a combination of first-and-second-fill American white oak casks for 10 years, the expression is a benchmark for creamy, approachable single malt. A long-running go-to dram for many whisky enthusiasts (including a few here at MoM Towers), this stuff is superb as an aepritif, though more than suitable for enjoying on a cooler evening.
Very fruity and thick. Rich notes of lemon, nectarine and apple. Spices.
Fresh and balanced, vanilla. Boiled sweets, very creamy, tiramisu, toffee.
Quite long, gentle, malty and very fruity.
I received the Glenmorangie gift set from my son in law for Christmas. We opened the two small bottles of 12 year old first (10 years in American oak and 2 years in Oloroso casks/porto casks) I love cross barreling beers, wines and whiskeys so I couldn't wait. Both were very nice to drink indeed. Finishing in the fortified wine barrels adds a very subtle fruit note that I totally enjoy. Then we drank a couple drams of the 10 year old. I mostly drink blended whiskeys as single malts are generally loaded with 'character' and some have taken getting used to for my Kentucky Bourbon palette. I tend to seek balance in my whiskeys (and beers) and Glenmorangie seems to have found that delicate mix of malt, peat and oak. The smokiness of the peat was pleasant- not overbearing (Laphrounge took some getting used to) the tannins lended good leathery vanilla notes that followed through the finish. The overall balance is correct with the peat smoke gently leading the way followed by oak vanilla without any bite.
This scotch in many ways supplies the yardstick by which I judge malt whisky. It is classically highland with some wood notes and smooth entry with a leather finish. If you want to know if you like malt whisky, buy this one first. Explore from there.
I am not a fan of this malt. I wouldn't turn it down as a gift but I would never give it as one.
I get a musty smell of paint, old wood and damp leather shoes. Bit of apple mixed in on tasting. rather nice.
This is my second time trying Glenmorangie 10, and both times I have hated it. I just do not get the high marks most people give it. First of all, at 43 abv, it is too strong for such a weak-bodied whisky. Second, it has a harsh, gasoline flavor. I like all kinds of scotches, from blends to Islay stuff, but I cannot stomach this. It is like rotgut American bourbon. I would not take a bottle as a gift. For anyone new to single malts, do not start with this one. Go with Glenlivet, which is about the same price, at lest here in the USA.
