Glenmorangie | The Lasanta 15 Years Old
The whisky with the heaviest ex-sherry cask influence in the Glenmorangie core range. The north Highland distillery has recently upped the age statement for The Lasanta from 12- to 15 years. The result is phenomenal. They have done similar across the rest of their core range over the last couple of years – The Original went from 10- to 12 Years Old, Quinta Ruban from 12- to 14-, and Nectar from 14- to 16 years.
Imagine notes of raisin, dried apricot and baking spice married with caramel, vanilla sponge cake and candied orange peel. It feels decadent and luxurious with late hints of toasted walnut, hazelnut praline and freshly baked gingerbread. It is difficult to improve on a classic, but Glenmorangie have achieved it here.
Glendronach | Ode To The Dark
Want to go even richer? The Ode To The Dark could be the answer. It is one of a trio of whiskies in the recently released Master’s Anthology. The series has been created by Dr. Rachel Barrie, the Master Blender for Glendronach. It has been entirely matured in ex-Pedro Ximénez sherry casks – this style of sherry is almost dessert-like, sweet, sugary and treacly. 100% PX maturation for a whisky is super rare.
The rich characteristics from the cask are transferred perfectly to the viscous, oily spirit that Glendronach is known for. Expect notes of milk chocolate, plum and dark cherry combined with plump raisins, brandy-soaked prunes and treacle tart for a rich, decadent drink. This is exquisite.
Bowmore | 15 Years Old
If you are in the mood for something peaty, then Bowmore is a classic example. Many enjoy the smoky aromas and flavours of an Islay whisky. The Hebridean island off Scotland’s west coast is known for this style. This 15 Years Old combines peat smoke and ex-sherry cask maturation. Bowmore does not pack the powerful punch of some of its Islay neighbours but offers a lovely level of elegant smoke.
This whisky combines raisins, nuts, bitter orange oil and an intriguing twist of bright tropical fruit. The peat smoke is never far away and wisps around everything. This has an ashy bonfire-like vibe, and this dries out the whisky towards the end. A subliminal Scotch whisky that shows Islay at its very best.
Pairings
Sherried and smoky whiskies work well with rich desserts or chocolate. Buy (or make) the best that you can. So, whether it is New York style cheesecake, chocolate ganache truffles or a bar of 70% chocolate, just sit back and savour the combination. All work excellently – simply sip your whisky, take a bit of food (or vice versa) and your tastebuds will thank you.
Scotch is also perfect when paired with cigars and is a classic combination. A good glass of great whisky combined with a great cigar will make any evening feel better. Create balance between the two, so that one does not overpower the other, and they will complement each other superbly.
