Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 Year Scotch

Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 Year Scotch shines when sipped neat or with a splash of water to unlock its complex flavors, though it also makes an excellent base for spirit-forward cocktails. This warming Highland single malt is perfect for cool autumn evenings, paired with rich desserts like dark chocolate or caramel-based treats that complement its sherry-cask sweetness.

Nose: Rich sherry notes dominate, accompanied by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Sweet honey and caramel aromas blend with hints of dried fruits, particularly raisins and dates. A subtle nuttiness reminiscent of roasted almonds lingers in the background.

Palate: Velvety and full-bodied. The sherry influence is immediately apparent, bringing flavors of dark chocolate, toffee, and stewed fruits. Orange zest and ginger add a bright, spicy kick. Oaky vanilla notes balance the sweetness, while a touch of leather provides depth.

Finish: Long and warming. The spices intensify, with clove and black pepper emerging. Dried fruit flavors persist, joined by a subtle smokiness. A pleasant dryness develops, reminiscent of fine oak, leaving a lingering taste of dark chocolate and orange peel.

Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 Year begins its journey as the distillery's signature 10-year-old single malt, which is then transferred to Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks for an additional two years of maturation. This extra aging in sweet wine barrels imparts rich, nutty flavors and a velvety mouthfeel to the whisky, creating a complex dram that beautifully showcases the influence of sherry cask finishing on Scotch.

• Glenmorangie Lasanta's name comes from the Gaelic word for "warmth and passion," reflecting not only its rich flavor profile but also the distillery's commitment to innovation. It's one of the few Scotch whiskies that uses custom-designed stills with necks as tall as a giraffe, allowing for a more refined and delicate spirit.
• The Lasanta undergoes a unique "wood marriage" process where it spends 10 years in ex-bourbon casks before being transferred to Oloroso and PX sherry casks for an additional two years. This double maturation is so precise that the distillery employs a dedicated "Director of Whisky Creation" to oversee the process.
• Despite its rich, sherried flavor profile, Lasanta is made from 100% malted barley dried without any peat smoke. This makes it an excellent "bridge" whisky for bourbon lovers looking to explore Scotch, as it offers familiar vanilla and caramel notes alongside its distinctive sherry influence.