Glenmorangie 10 Year Old - The Original 35cl Review

Glenmorangie 10 Year Old, affectionately known as 'The Original', is a staple in the world of single malt Scotch whisky. Before diving into the sensory journey, let's look at the basic details:

• ABV: 40%
• Price: £22.75 (for a 35cl bottle)

First Impressions

The bottle design of Glenmorangie 10 Year Old is elegant and tall, much like the stills they use to distill this Highland classic. The golden hue of the whisky promises a traditional Scotch experience. It's immediately clear that this is a whisky that prides itself on refinement and consistency.

Flavour & Aroma

On the nose, 'The Original' greets you with a bouquet of citrus and ripening peaches, softened by notes of vanilla. Taking the first sip, you'll find it pleasantly smooth, with flavors of honeyed sweetness and a hint of almond and coconut. The finish is crisp and leaves a lingering taste of matured fruit and a subtle floral fragrance.

It's a remarkably approachable whisky, making it a solid choice for newcomers, while still offering enough depth to satisfy the seasoned enthusiast.

Value for Money

Priced at £22.75 for a 35cl bottle, this whisky sits comfortably within the 'affordable luxury' category. Given the quality and the brand's reputation, it presents good value for money for a premium single malt. It's a go-to dram for those looking to enjoy a classic Highland malt without breaking the bank.

Similar Whiskies

If you're exploring around Glenmorangie 10 Year Old, you might also consider the likes of Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old or the Dalwhinnie 15 Year Old. Both offer that accessible complexity and similar flavor profiles that sherry cask maturation brings to the table.

Brand & Distillery

Glenmorangie has a rich heritage, with its distillery being founded in 1843. Known for having the tallest stills in Scotland, the brand attributes the smoothness of its whisky to this distinctive feature. They often experiment with different cask finishes, but 'The Original' is their benchmark expression, setting the standard for their range.

Summary & Rating

Rating: 4/5

Glenmorangie 10 Year Old - The Original is a harmonious blend of fruit, floral, and sweet notes, perfectly balanced to create an enjoyable and accessible dram. It's well-priced for its quality, and while not the most complex whisky you'll ever taste, it delivers a consistent and pleasurable experience. It's a solid 4 out of 5, a reliable companion for both quiet evenings and special occasions alike.