Glenmorangie Signet is a testament to the distillery’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of single malt scotch. Crafted by the renowned Glenmorangie Distillery, which has been producing exceptional whiskies in the Highlands of Scotland since 1843, Signet represents a departure from the distillery’s signature style and a venture into uncharted territory.
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The Story Behind Glenmorangie Signet
Dr. Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie’s Director of Distilling, Whisky Creation & Whisky Stocks, is the mastermind behind Signet. His vision was to create a whisky that would challenge conventions and redefine the possibilities of single-malt scotch. To achieve this, he turned to a unique ingredient: ‘chocolate’ malt.
‘Chocolate’ malt, also known as high-roasted malted barley, is typically used in small quantities to add depth and colour to whisky. However, Dr. Lumsden decided to use a much higher proportion of this malt, resulting in a whisky with an astonishingly rich and complex flavour profile.
Production Process
The production of Glenmorangie Signet begins with the ‘chocolate’ malt, which is sourced from a single origin and roasted to a precise specification. This malt is then combined with Glenmorangie’s house malt and mashed to extract the sugars. The resulting liquid is fermented and distilled in the distillery’s signature tall copper stills, the tallest in Scotland.
The new-make spirit is then aged in a combination of American oak, sherry, and new charred oak casks. The exact proportions and ages of the casks used remain a closely guarded secret, but the result is a whisky of unparalleled depth and complexity.
Tasting Notes
| Aspect | Notes |
|---|---|
| Nose | Dark chocolate, espresso, spiced oranges, sweet apricots, fresh mint |
| Palate | Rich and velvety texture, bursts of chocolate and coffee, citrus fruits, spices |
| Finish | Long, smooth, and warming with a hint of malt and mocha |
In the words of Whisky Advocate, “Glenmorangie Signet is a true masterpiece. The complexity of flavours is unmatched, and the smooth finish keeps me coming back for more.”
Personal Tasting Notes
Upon nosing Glenmorangie Signet, I was immediately struck by the richness of the chocolate and coffee aromas, which were beautifully balanced by the brightness of the citrus and mint notes. On the palate, the whisky was incredibly smooth and velvety, with a weight and texture that coated the mouth most satisfyingly. The flavours of dark chocolate and espresso were intense and persistent, yet never overwhelming, allowing the subtler notes of fruit and spice to shine through. The finish was long and warming, with a delightful hint of malt and mocha that lingered long after the last sip.
Awards and Accolades
Glenmorangie Signet has garnered numerous awards and accolades since its release, including:
- Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2019)
- Gold at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (2018)
- 96 points from Whisky Advocate (2018)
User Reviews
“I’ve been a fan of Glenmorangie for years, but Signet takes things to a whole new level. The depth and complexity of this whisky are simply stunning. It’s a true gem in my collection.” – Mark S., Whisky Enthusiast
“As someone who typically enjoys bourbon, I was hesitant to try a scotch whisky. However, Glenmorangie Signet has completely converted me. The rich chocolate and coffee notes are reminiscent of fine bourbon, while the smoothness and complexity are distinctly scotch. A must-try for any whisky lover.” – Sarah T., Bourbon Enthusiast
“Glenmorangie Signet is a whisky that demands to be savoured slowly. Each sip reveals new layers of flavour and aroma, making it a truly engaging and enjoyable experience. It’s the perfect dram for a special occasion or a quiet evening of reflection.” – James R., Whisky Connoisseur
Pricing and Availability
Glenmorangie Signet is a premium whisky, with a price tag to match. In the United States, a 750ml bottle typically retails for around $250. In the United Kingdom, expect to pay around £190.00 for a 700ml bottle.
While widely available, some regions may have limited stock due to high demand. It’s always best to check with your local retailers or online distributors for availability.
Comparison
| Whisky | Style | ABV | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glenmorangie Signet | Single Malt Scotch | 46% | $250 |
| Macallan Rare Cask | Single Malt Scotch | 43% | $300 |
| Glenfiddich 21 Year Old | Single Malt Scotch | 40% | $180 |
| Dalmore King Alexander III | Single Malt Scotch | 40% | $250 |
| Balvenie 21 Year Old PortWood | Single Malt Scotch | 40% | $250 |
Related Products
If you enjoyed Glenmorangie Signet, you might also want to try these other exceptional whiskies:
- Glenmorangie 18-Year-Old: A rich and complex expression that showcases Glenmorangie’s signature style.
- Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban: A port-finished whisky with notes of dark chocolate, mint, and tangerines.
- Macallan Edition No. 6: A limited-edition release that explores the influence of sherry-seasoned oak casks on the flavour profile of the whisky.
Where to Buy
Glenmorangie Signet is available at select retailers worldwide. In the United States, you can find it at:
For international purchases, check with your local liquor stores or specialty whisky retailers.
Conclusion
Glenmorangie Signet is a whisky that challenges preconceptions and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of single malt scotch. Its unique ‘chocolate’ malt, innovative production process, and stunning flavour profile make it a whisky that stands apart from the crowd.
Whether you’re a seasoned whisky connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Glenmorangie Signet is a dram that demands to be experienced. Pour a glass, take a sip, and savour the artistry and innovation that went into creating this truly exceptional whisky.
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