Glenmorangie Astar

Bill Dowd photo

This is the newest ultra-premium whisky in the Glenmorangie portfolio. I had the opportunity to sample it during a "kaleidoscope tasting" session in Louisville, KY, with Dr. Bill Lumsden, head of distilling and whisky creation for the Scottish company.

• Glenmorangie Astar

"Astar" is Gaelic for "journey," an apt title for this new expression since it takes the senses on quite a ride.

There is a surprising burst of white chocolate in the initial nose, along with some pineapple and menthol. With water, more spices plus hints of balsamic and coconut flavors play around the edges with touches of toast.

Then, a chardonnay-type grapefruit note emerges, along with the house characteristic -- a menthol/eucalyptic top note.

Although this whisky is very spicy, there is no unpleasant bite. Nuttiness, vanilla, creme brulee all come to mind.

I find this the closest thing to bourbon in the Glenmorangie portfolio.

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