The Glenmorangie Extremely Rare 18 Year Old Azuma Makoto Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a harmonious masterpiece that blends exquisite craftsmanship and artistic inspiration. Crafted in Scotland's Highland region, this 43% ABV single malt is matured for 15 years in American oak bourbon casks and finished for three years in Oloroso sherry casks, producing a velvety, tropical profile. A collaboration with renowned floral artist Azuma Makoto, this limited edition whisky evokes a sensory bouquet of dried fruits, honey, jasmine, and geranium, culminating in a luscious palate of honeysuckle, figs, and butterscotch. With its radiant floral design and luxurious presentation, this whisky is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate, delivering a decadent experience worthy of connoisseurs and collectors alike.
Process & Profile
Crafted in Glenmorangie's Highland distillery, this whisky undergoes an extraordinary maturation process. For the first 15 years, it is aged in American white oak bourbon barrels sourced from the Ozark Mountains, which impart rich, sweet characteristics. A portion of the spirit is then transferred into Oloroso sherry casks for an additional three years, allowing the whisky to acquire deep, nutty, and fruity nuances. The final step reunites the whiskies for bottling at 43% ABV. The result is a golden amber-hued Scotch with exceptional depth and balance.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: A rich bouquet of creamy honey, dried fruits, and soft florals like jasmine, tuberose, and geranium. Subtle hints of caramel, spices, and citrus add complexity.
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Palate: Tropical and creamy, with layers of nectarines in yogurt, acacia honey, and peaches in cream. Notes of butterscotch, lychee, and gentle spice unfold beautifully on the tongue.
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Finish: Long and lingering, highlighted by tangy oak, citrus peels, and sweet figs that fade into a luxurious, floral aftertaste.
What Makes It Special
This limited edition is not just a whisky—it's an artistic experience. Azuma Makoto's floral artistry mirrors the whisky's complex and layered flavor profile, likening it to a flower in bloom. His vibrant "Dancing Flowers of Glenmorangie" design is showcased on the label and presentation box, making this bottle a true collector's item. The meticulous aging process in both bourbon and sherry casks adds unmatched sophistication and depth to every sip.
How to Enjoy
To savor the full elegance of this whisky:
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Serve Neat: Enjoy it at room temperature to experience its intricate layers of aroma and flavor.
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With Water: Add a splash of water to unlock its floral and fruity characteristics.
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Pairing Suggestions: Complement its flavors with dark chocolate, aged cheeses, or a dessert like crème brûlée. For a more adventurous pairing, explore floral or honey-infused dishes.
This exceptional single malt Scotch whisky is not only a tribute to Glenmorangie's mastery but also a celebration of artistry and natural beauty. It is a whisky to be savored and cherished, making every sip a moment of indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the inspiration behind the Azuma Makoto edition of Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare?
The Azuma Makoto edition is a limited-edition collaborative bottling that celebrates the whisky's unique floral and fruity characteristics. Inspired by the whisky's bouquet, Japanese floral artist Azuma Makoto created a stunning airborne floral artwork, "Dancing Flowers of Glenmorangie," showcased on the label and packaging.
What is the maturation process for this whisky?
The Glenmorangie 18 Year Old is aged for 15 years in American white oak bourbon casks, after which 30% of the spirit is transferred to Oloroso sherry casks for an additional three years. The two portions are then married together, creating a complex and refined whisky.
What does the whisky taste like?
This whisky offers a rich and layered flavor profile. The nose features creamy citrus, caramel-drizzled pannacotta, and cinnamon, while the palate unfolds tropical notes of peaches, nectarines in cream, and acacia honey. The finish is long, with tangy oak, grilled grapefruit, and caramelized sugar.
How should I serve Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare?
This whisky is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to unlock its full array of aromas and flavors. It pairs beautifully with rich foods like dark chocolate, aged cheeses, or sweet desserts, enhancing its complexity and elegance.
What makes this whisky a collector's item?
The Azuma Makoto edition is a limited release featuring exclusive artistic packaging and a carefully crafted whisky that ranks among Glenmorangie's most prestigious offerings. Its exceptional aging process, award-winning flavor profile, and artistic collaboration make it highly sought after by collectors.
What awards has this whisky received?
The Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare has garnered significant recognition, such as a Gold Medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition and a 94-point rating from Whisky Advocate, praising its smoothness, depth, and rich flavors.
What is the alcohol content of Glenmorangie 18 Year Old Extremely Rare?
This whisky has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 43%, offering a balanced and smooth drinking experience.
Can you describe the packaging of the Azuma Makoto edition?
The Azuma Makoto edition showcases the artist's floral artwork, featuring nearly 100 blooms arranged in a stunning design. It reflects the whisky's radiant and vibrant nature, making it a visually compelling and luxurious collector's item.
What food pairings complement this whisky?
This whisky pairs wonderfully with foods that enhance its flavor profile, such as dark chocolate, creamy cheeses, or desserts featuring honey and nuts. These pairings bring out the whisky's nuanced notes of caramel, dried fruits, and floral undertones.
Is this whisky suitable for newcomers to Scotch?
Yes, its smooth and approachable profile, with a balance of sweet, nutty, and floral notes, makes it suitable for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike.