Glenmorangie A Tale of the Forest Limited Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Glenmorangie’s “Tale” series continues a tradition of experimentation that started with the now discontinued Private Editions. The latest to land in Australia is 'A Tale of the Forest' and it's guaranteed to be one of the most novel 'Morangies of recent times. Frankly, we're surprised it made it past the Scotch Whisky Association - the hard-line and somewhat conservative body that enforces Scotch Whisky regulations. It's a malt infused with natural botanicals during kilning, including juniper, birch bark, heather and rowan berries, bringing flavours of peppermint, menthol, eucalyptus, pine, wood sap, angelica, bitter orange and aromatic wood smoke. It’s not entirely unique. Swedish single malt producer, Mackmyra employ juniper branches to dry some of the malt for their 'Svensk Rok' release, which makes sense, as juniper has been used to season food in Sweden for generations. Glenmorangie's Head of Whisky Creation, Bill Lumsden says there's a good reason why no one has done it before in Scotland. “The whole thing was horrendously difficult, but that made it more appealing to me, because anything like this should always be a labor of love.” He adds, “This whisky calls to be tasted outdoors, where people can get their senses awakened by being outside, hopefully in a forest, with some moss-covered boulders and running water, because the sound of running water adds to the mix, igniting your senses.” Replete with botanically themed packaging designed by noted Thai illustrator, Pomme Chan, the whisky was aged in Bourbon barrels (mostly refill casks) and comes bottled at 46% Alc./Vol. Very limited stocks.

Other reviews... The nose is immediately unique and engaging. It’s a bit smoky, which isn’t something I’ve ever really detected in a Glenmorangie. Not a heavy, peat-fueled smoke, but a thin, sweet campfire smoke that does indeed evoke the forest. That sensation is enhanced by notes of fresh mint, sweet pine sap, and dried berries that eventually give way to more classic Glenmorangie aromas of tinned pear and honeyed malt. The palate is elegant with a subtle oiliness and soft warmth. The smoke carries through here, as well, with bit of toasted fir branch that complements sweeter, brighter notes of juniper and clove. The herbal and resinous elements threaten to turn sharp on the midpalate but instead soften to candied ginger, peppermint, and Christmas cake on a long, silky finish dusted with five spice and pipe smoke. It’s a well-built, if very unusual, whisky, ideal for exploring in the winter season. Although it might appeal more to smokeheads than Highland purists. - drinkhacker.com