Another one of the samples that I got from Stefan van der Boog, together with the Macallan one. Of course you have to buy more than one thing, since postage has to be made the most of.

I don’t have too much experience with older Glenmorangie. It is one of those distilleries that is seen as a common one, like Glenfiddich and Glenlivet, with the result that I don’t usually seek them out.

Since it’s a vintage bottling there is no age on the label, but it has to be 24 or 25 years old, if you do the calculations. One of the oldest Glenmorangies I’ve tasted so far.

Glenmorangie 1974-1999. Image from Whiskybase

Sniff:
It’s very fresh and rather minty at first, but those scents are quickly joined by candles and beeswax. Very light with not much direct oak. Some green leaves and hints of flowers. Straw as well.

Sip:
Rather typically Glenmorangie, if there is such a thing. Chalky, slightly salty with white oak. Rather rich with minerals, basalt and wax.

Swallow:
The finish is very gentle with full honey, beeswax, some light oakiness and chalk again. Some apple too.

I want a bottle. This stuff is so layered and rich, I can barely believe it. Of course, it’s not as in-your-face as some cask strength bottlings, but the gentleness in this case lets the flavours shine. Really, really, gorgeous whisky. I might have to seek out how it compares to the current Glenmorangie 25!

Glenmorangie 1974-1999 for travel retail, 43%, 750ml.