Glenmorangie 12 years old The Original Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 40%

Glenmorangie has Scotland's tallest pot stills, as tall as a fully grown giraffe, and that's part of the reason The Original sits so light and elegant on the tongue. It's the bottle that has introduced more people to the distillery than any other.

Expert's Description

Glenmorangie 12 Year Old The Original is a Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in bourbon casks and bottled at 40%.

The distillery sits in Tain in the north of Scotland and uses some of the tallest stills in the country, giving the spirit unusually long contact with the copper before it condenses. The result is a light, clean and remarkably smooth whisky that has been Glenmorangie's core story since 1843.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Citrus blossom and a light vanilla sweetness, backed by a fresh, almost mentholated crispness.

Palate

Soft and round, with honey, pear and a mild spice from the bourbon cask. The texture is light, but far from thin.

Finish

Short to medium, clean and refreshing, with a last hint of citrus.

Specifications

Name: Glenmorangie 12 Year Old The Original Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70cl 40%
Distillery: Glenmorangie
Region/Country: Highland, Scotland
Type: Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Age: 12 years
ABV: 40%
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Bourbon casks

Flavour Profile

Citrus-toned · Soft · Honeyed · Light

Did You Know?

Glenmorangie's pot stills are among the tallest in Scotland – over five metres – and the name Glenmorangie means "glen of tranquility" in Gaelic, a fitting description of the calm, gentle style the distillery is known for.

See our full range of Glenmorangie

Frequently asked questions about Glenmorangie 12 Year Old The Original

What makes Glenmorangie 12 Year Old The Original special?

It's the distillery's core bottling, known for its light, citrus-toned style, which comes from Scotland's tallest pot stills.

Is this whisky smoky?

No, Glenmorangie is a completely unpeated Highland malt focused on citrus, honey and pear.

Is this whisky suitable for a beginner?

Yes, the light, approachable style and 40% strength make it one of the best starting points for new whisky drinkers.

What does the name Glenmorangie mean?

It comes from Gaelic and means roughly "glen of tranquility" – a description that fits well with the whisky's calm, soft character.

How should this whisky be served?

Best at room temperature in a nosing glass, ideally with a few drops of water to further highlight the citrus and honey notes.

What other Glenmorangie expressions are there?

Glenmorangie offers several older and cask-finished expressions, but The Original best shows the distillery's clean core style.