A rare experiment from Glenmorangies Barrel Select series, this 13-year-old expression was initially matured in ex-bourbon casks before being finished in Cognac casks a marrying of Scotch and French distilling artistry. The result is a small-batch, oaky and fruity single malt that brings together Glenmorangies fruit-forward Highland character with warm spice, leather, and wine-spirit nuances.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Warm honey-gold with soft amber tones.

Nose: Fragrant and inviting, with orchard fruits (pear, baked apple) and citrus zest rising first. Underneath lies oak spice, hints of leather, toasted nuts, and a whisper of cognacs red fruits.

Palate: Lush and well balanced. Youll taste honeyed fruit (peach, apricot), gentle oak spice, glazed almonds, and a delicate tannic dryness from the cognac casks. Theres a subtle tightening of oak influence as it opens.

Finish: Medium length, softly drying with lingering oak spice, warm nuts, and a touch of orchard fruit echoing through the close.

Craft & Character

Dr. Bill Lumsden long envisaged marrying the soft, elegant spirit of Glenmorangie with the character of cognac casks but earlier trials proved overpowering. With this release, Glenmorangie selected well-seasoned Cognac casks (i.e. casks used multiple times) to avoid wood dominance, allowing subtle interplay between the Scotch and cognac influence.

The whisky was distilled on 22 February 2008 and spent about 8 years in American white oak (ex-bourbon) before entering the Cognac finish phase.

Collectors Note

This is a niche release not part of the core Glenmorangie lineup. It appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate experimentation with finishing spirits. Its combination of Highland fruit, oak spice, and cognac nuance makes it a conversation piece in any collection

Technical Details

Distillery: Glenmorangie, Tain, Highland, Scotland

Expression / Series: Barrel Select Release Cognac Cask Finish

Age: 13 Years

ABV: 46%

Volume: 700ml

Cask Journey: Matured ~8 years in ex-bourbon casks, then finished in lightly used Cognac casks selected to temper oaks dominance.

Filtration / Colouring: Non-chill filtered, natural colour (standard Glenmorangie practice)