Glenmorangie "Spios" Private Edition Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)

The ninth release in Glenmorangie’s Private Edition series was matured fully in American oak barrels that previously contained rye whiskey. A reticent early nose: melon and a hint of lemon, then warm, oily cereal notes and honey develop. Initially fruity on the palate, with ripe banana, then slightly earthy, with nutty spice and cocoa powder. Zesty spices in the finish, drinking chocolate, and youthful oak. (GS, Summer 2018)

The ninth release of the award-winning "Private Edition" from Glenmorangie is a true labor of love for their Chief Whisky Creation officer, Dr. Bill Lumsden. The good doctor explains that his obsession with rye whiskey (in particular the casks that had previously aged that rare American whiskey) began when famed whisky and beer writer Michael Jackson visited the distillery with a sample of the venerable American whiskey. It was Bill's first time diving into one of America's great spirits, and at the time, sometime in the '90s, rye whiskey was next to impossible to acquire. It took Dr. Bill a full decade to secure casks that had previously only held whiskey from Kentucky distilled with rye as the main grain. Into these he put the majestic and elegant Glenmo spirit, and approximately another decade later released this special whisky. Spios, a Gaelic word meaning spiced, is as accented with the rye casks as you might expect. Cinnamon, clove, hints of nutmeg and sweet creamy vanilla from the American oak work wonders around the fruity, open Glenmo malt. For anyone who appreciates the excellent malts being released in this wonderful line of limited edition whiskies, as well as single malt drinkers seeking new and exciting flavor profiles, this is a must buy.