Glenmorangie – Grand Vintage 1998

In 1998, new charred oak casks had never been used at the Glenmorangie distillery before. Dr. Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie’s director of whisky, changed that by allowing casks to burn out heavily in order to impart an intense colour and spice to the whisky. The nose is rich and mild, with some toffee, ripe fruits such as pears, plums, baked apples and a light oak note. Aromas of sweet vanilla, fragrant mint and a mildly warm, waxy note of fragrant incense follow. With a few drops of water, the classic Glenmorangie citrus notes emerge with lemon, mandarin, sweet tobacco, hints of lavender and some ginger in the background. Spicy and almost exuberant on the palate, vibrant fruitiness bursts with notes of chocolate, smooth butterscotch and hints of sweet raisins and figs. Orange chocolate follows with some clove, ginger and aniseed.