Glenmorangie has unveiled its annual limited release for 2024, introducing the Glenmorangie A Tale of Ice Cream. This new expression continues the distillery’s tradition of innovative and intriguing releases.
Glenmorangie A Tale of Ice Cream is distinguished by its alluringly sweet profile, incorporating flavors reminiscent of those found in many ice cream parlors. The whisky has been matured in barrels known for their high vanilla content, although the specific type of these barrels has not been disclosed. Additionally, ex-bourbon barrels have been used, which are also known for imparting significant vanilla notes to the whisky. The release is bottled at 46% alcohol by volume.
In terms of tasting notes, Glenmorangie A Tale of Ice Cream offers a gentle and pleasing aroma with hints of honey, vanilla, lemon candy, and a touch of raisin bread. This evolves into nuances of orange zest, peach, toffee, and subtle spices. The flavor is full and rich, with a blend of sweet and spicy notes taking center stage. Flavors of brioche, honey, fudge, sorbet, coconut, cinnamon, and toffee can be discerned. The finish is long, rich, and sweet, making for a memorable tasting experience.
Serge Valentin (82)
I rather enjoyed the ‘Tale of Cake’ (WF 85) and found the ‘Tale of Tokyo’ (WF 88) even more to my taste, but this one comes with the note that it was ‘aged in high vanillin and bourbon casks.’ High-vanillin casks, you say? Well, more seriously, it seems that it’s a specific toasting method that enhances the vanillin content produced by American oak. So, after chocolate malt, here’s vanilla casks. Colour: gold. Nose: I’m mainly getting green tea and coconut, layered over hazelnut cake and some Streusel. You could argue that Streusel could also come filled with vanilla cream. There’s a youthful edge, but the oak knows its place. Mouth: it’s got a bit more bite to it, with a slightly green tannic quality that brings the green tea to the forefront again, followed by spices—cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg—and a touch of slightly rough peach skin. Finally, some freshly pressed oranges with a hint of saffron. Finish: medium length, with a bit of green oak. Bitter oranges linger on the aftertaste. Comments: I think I might have missed that famous high-vanillin, and the ice cream even more so. Still, I find it quite enjoyable, though I believe I preferred the earlier ‘Tale’ releases.
