Hey Ralfy, I'm pretty new to the whiskey world. I have had many different blends over the past couple of years and watching your videos for awhile I thought I would give some single malt's a try. I decided on Glenmorangie to be my first one and I was surprised at how big the difference was between the blends I had tired before like Black Grouse and Dewar's and a single malt. Needless to say I sure am glad I ventured into the world of single malt's couldn't have done it without you.
Great to go back to old reviews Ralfy. I recently found a Glenmorangie Madeira from the 90's in an obscure liquor store in Miami which I'll open soon. The original is one of my favorite go-to malts together with Glenfiddich 12. Any thoughts about the old Madeira finish you can share before I open the bottle? Thanks!
I started with Glenmorangie Sonnalta, then the finishes....my first bottle of the Original was lacklustre but have returned to it and found it a delight. I doubt they'll upgrade it, though...not unless all other heavy hitters do they same for their opening age statement offerings. Ralfy should I take the cellophane wrapping off my unopened boxed bottle of Signet? Will be putting it aside for a rainy day. Thanks for all you do.
Tried some Glenmorangie original for the first time tonight - amazing! 4th single malt for this young beginner and I am truly blown away. Love the reviews Ralfy
Ralfy I respect your reviews greatly and agree with your assessment of the Glenmorangie Original. A sensational whisky at such a value price point. Truly. HOWEVER, I disagree with your words about the Quinta Ruban (port finish), which I found absolutely outstanding. I will confess I have not tasted the older bottlings of it, nor do I possess your experienced palate... but I still find it wonderful on MY nose and palate. Also value priced, at least here in the United States. As you said, the folks at Glenmorangie certainly know what they are doing.
hi Ralfy. great review! your reviews are very informative. would you recommend the glenmorangie 10 more than the glenlivet 15? from where i am from both have the same price. thank you!
loving your reviews as I begin my scotch education. I was thinking of buying a Glencairn glass, but my local liquor store has a great pack of Glenmorangie with two tumblers that are suitably tapered presumably to improve the aromatic experience. A good deal, or should I just go for the Glencairn?
Excellent review Ralfy. I was looking for a good single malt to try and your review inspired me to go with the Glenmorangie Original. The flavors and the nose you described sounded very much along the lines of what I like in a Scotch. Although I am not new to whiskeys, I am fairly new to single malts and your reviews break it down nicely. Cheers!
Ralfy: I have bought Glenmorangie Original many times but always in its current design (comes in the yellow box, modern design). Last week at the local liquor shop I saw a bottle of Glenmorangie from an older design and I feel the quality is significantly better. I wanted to know how old this bottle can be, or at least when the label was changed to the current one. This label is larger, comes with a smaller label on top saying "ten years old" and the cork has raised red letters. Thank you
You said 97/100, the card read 87/100. Drinking the Glenmorangie 18 ($100 US) tonight and i am wondering if there is better for a lower price and what those Scotches are? Thank You
Ralfy, do you rate any of the 'finish' products, at all? I found the Quinta Ruban very enjoyable, not so much with the Lasanta - although I was comparing it to my Glendronach 15 Revival (bought at your recommendation) and I've yet to try the Nectar D'or, although I have three bottle in my collection as they were 'reduced to clear' recently for £15 a piece! One other question though; one of my Nectar bottles is 15yr old, while the others are 12.? x
Hi Ralfy, quick question(s): Is the Glenmorangie Signet worth the hype and price? And how would it stack up against an Old Pultney 17 yo? I love your reviews, they help me make good choices plus I learn loads! Cheers!
Ok. So I'm moving from Speyside and am trying a Highland this time. The Glenmorangie Original 10 year... It wasn't planned. I went to get another bottle of Glenfiddich but they didn't have it in stock... So I decided to try another. Currently I have tried (and enjoyed): Glenlivet 12 Glenfiddich 12 I've only just started my Scotch drinking venture, but I'm enjoying every moment of it. I tend to drink it neat. As always, Ralfy... Thank you for posting these videos. They have helped me tremendously from learning how to properly drink it, to the history and other tidbits that go along with it. I still don't have a proper Glencairn glass, just a tumbler... However I plan to rectify that oversight soon.
hey ralfy, which is a better whiskey?? i was just comparing the original glenmorangie and the 12 year old sherry oak macallan and was hoping to get your view on it in terms of taste and nose differences...
Hi Ralfy, I am currently enjoying a dram of Quinta Ruban. Is there something I do not know? It is non chill-filtered, bottled at 46%, appears to be a craft presentation and I do not suspect E150. The bottle has sat at about 50% full for about 12 months (at the back of my collection), and it has been sitting in the glass for about half an hour. Although I am in no way an expert, it does not appear to be a second grade whisky masked by the port cask finish. I would buy it again.
Ralfy I have a chance to purchase the old version of the 10 year old (ie when it was called '10 year old' and not 'The Original'). Was it that much better in those days that its worth buying, even though I have already bought 'The Original' (and enjoyed it), or will it be much the same thing? Thanks.
Ralfy, huge fan here! Question for ya, you said that you are continuing a section of "readily available' whiskys, for a beginning whisky drinker, where would you suggest I start?
Hi Ralfy, Is there any other whiskys which are similar in character to the Glenmorangie Original that you would recommend? Price not a big factor unless it's ridiculously rare/expensive. Thanks!
Ralfy what is your opinion of the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban? I really liked the old Port wood finish but i just can't make up my mind about this one. On first taste i got a lot of sweetness, candied fruits, chocolate, citrus and mint and the addition of water left a very nice oily, velvety texture. However i just felt the taste didn't really develop and just sort of stuck. Worth a drink but i was a bit disappointed after being so excited to try.
these are the best reviews ever. i was watching them on my phone in the supermarket while trying to decide what to buy. is there any easy way to find out what your top 5 readily available whiskies are? i was going to glenfiddich 15 yr but went for this one instead based on price and your score.
I started off drinking single malts a few years ago with this, but some on the internet are saying that it was sold recently and the quality is diminishing - as my first comment on one of your videos from which I've learned a huge amount, can I ask what you think about this?
Hey Ralfy, I just picked up a bottle of the Glenmorangie Astar. Have you tried this one yet? It's bottled at 57.1%, so I'm trying to figure out if its a cask strength. I find it's amazingly smooth, althrough dry, for such a high alcohol content.
I recently got a mini of HP 18 and I will say that while I love the flavors on the palette, the smoky pepper aftertaste might take some getting used to.
Hi Ralfy, any chance of an update on the Glenmorangie 10? I consider it a staple in my cabinet and never dissapoints. Interested in your views on this since your last review. cheers
Hi. I'm 20 years old and this was my first scotch whisky I bought (19 is legal age to buy liquor in Canada). I absolutely love the aroma and taste especially when you add a wee dash of water. It's just amazing.
Hello Ralfy. Well I took your advice and bought a bottle of Glenmorangie the original and Ardbeg 10 as my 2nd and 3rd malts ever. Gave Glenmorangie a go last night and all Im getting is a little bit of toffee and what seems like perfume with a taste similar to Earl Grey tea?? I am a true novice but how long did it take to get all these flavours you discuss or maybe I am just too inexperienced...I intend to persevere.
The Original 10 is one of my favorites and I have found the Astar to basically be an improvement on all fronts and remarkably smooth for 57% which opens up wonderfully with water. In this video it sounds like you had not had it as it was too poncy for you and you were dismissing most of the others. Had you tried the Astar at the time of this video and if not, have you had it since?
Hey Ralfy, I know you've done a few re-reviews lately and was wondering if you'd ever consider doing Glenmorangie Original again? So many people, including myself, started their single malt journey with Glenmorangie. It seems as if there's a lot we can all learn about Scotland's best-selling whisky. If you don't get the chance, remember we are all thankful for everything you do and the useful information you provide!
@TheManInTheMasks Hi Man! I bought the same box set today and they are all 12 years old, except the Original which is 10. The ages were in the literature booklet inside the box. How did you like them?
Ralfy: They've got Glenmorangie 18yr at a local grocery (here in the States) on sale for $35. Seems like a good deal, but I came straight into Islays and my couple of forays outside the peat always leaves me disappointed. At $35 should I go for it anyway? What's your take on the 18yr?
New viewer, new to whiskey. I think I am on my 7th or 8th video in a row from you, and I can't stop! After watching all these videos, I really want to try this and the Balvenie. Which would you recommend first? Thanks!
I tried this one a few days back and was well impressed with it. Probably the best 10yo I've ever tasted. Maybe time for a re-review of this one? I've noticed a fair amount of vanilla in the finish, something you didn't find in this review.
hey ralfy what about the knockando? didn't find a review from you right away. I found the 12yrs right across the border in france for 26 €. is it on your future review list? i wonder about the 18 and 21yrs. so far i like the 12yrs a lot! greets from switzerland
How does this whisky compare to the older bottling of the original with the different label, before they were owned by Hennesse? I am told it is much different and am curious.
what brand of scotch would you recommend to someone just starting off drinking scotch? preferably something not too expensive. around 40-60$ a bottle here in america. something not too strong, preferably fruity, easy to drink? thanks
Hey Ralfy, I need your help. I just bought a bottle of Glenmorangie Burgundy Wood Finish at the local shop. Once home I wanted to check on the internet if I didn't over pay for it (it's one of those things I do), but I can't find any available anywhere. It's also the last bottle the shop had. So, is this out of production? They also had a bunch of Glenmorangie Madeira Wood Finish bottles which seem to be alot more expensive online then in that shop. Are those rare bottles? Are they any good?
I just purchased a bottle of this today and am a bit surprised by how different it is from what I remembered. All the versions of glenmorangie I've had at a few choice whiskey bars seemed much more rounded and mature. I added a little water, and even after a few minutes it's much more aggressively ethanol tasting. does it need to calm down in the bottle for a bit?
Yep, it just needed a few days. Depends on the Scotch, I assume. Generally, with heavily-peated scotches, which are the majority of what I buy, the first glass out of the bottle is the best one, in my opinion
Hey Ralfy, I want to buy a Glenmorangie. Should I take the Original (37,90€), the Nectar d'Or (49,90€) or the Lasanta (47.90€). Don't wonder about the price. there are two tumblers included ;-). By the Way: Your Reviews are great, keep up the good work :-) Cheers.
@ralfystuff thank you for the reply. am i right in inferring that black bottle in your number 1 choice from the readily available supermarket stock? it seems to be the cheapest of the lot!
Sipping this malt now for the first time. Its very nice light and sweet, I like it alot. I get big apricot and citrus notes. First whisky Ive tasted apricot in.
Great review Ralfy. I tried the higher end Glenmorangie bottles and agree, it was not any better than the original 10yr. This is now my favorite Scotch after dinner, sitting in front of the fireplace, reading a novel. Along with Macallan 12, it's my two favorites at the moment. Before I got into Scotch I was a bourbon guy, and although I still enjoy bourbon, there is just a proper time for a good Scotch. Thanks Ralfy for the review!
Hello Ralfy, I recently picked up a bottle of Glenmorangie Lasanta that was on sale at the grocery store, because I can no longer find Glenmorangie with the burgundy finish. Then I read that many of these bottlings have some kind of sulfur contamination, giving them a sulfur flavor. Now I'm afraid to open it. I can only afford to buy a bottle of good scotch about once a year, so should I take it back?
I found a bottle of this on the clearance shelf at Wal-Mart. I followed my hunch and bought it, and found out the clearance price was a pretty good deal. It's strange whisky for Wal-Mart to carry, as they usually stick to Dewar's and Glenlivet and Johnny Walker. Unexpected for them might be J&B. Maybe it was just an odd bottle that found its way on the truck and they cleared it because they weren't going to carry it regular. My bottle says it is 43% (86 proof). I looked it up online, and the local liquor barn says it is 40%. I believe you, Ralfy, said it was 40% in this review. My clearance bottle looks exactly the same as yours, the liquor barn's and everywhere else. I can find no clear statement of proof on the Glenmorangie site. Any idea as to what this discrepancy is all about?
I finally took your advice Ralfy, and picked up a bottle of the 10 yr Original...Needless to say I went back to the liquor store, and picked up 3 more since it was on sale for $30 per bottle...Great stuff! Thanks again for the recommendation Ralfy!
Ralfy, have you ever tried the Glenmorangie Lasanta? I've been sipping on it a little bit and I can not figure it out for the life of me (relatively inexperienced with single malt scotch).
i also found a box set for the glenfiddich 15 and was wondering if you have had it, it is $40 for the bottle,a mini 18 yr, and a glass. I have heard far more good thing about the 15 than the 12....
me and my mates are going on a roadtrip in scotland this summer and I'm really looking forward to it. But what I'd like to know is what a bottle like this costs in scotland. Down here (the netherlands) we pay around 35 euros for it, but I'm curious how many pounds you have to put down in scotland. The reason I ask is that we are students who have to watch our spendings a little ;) and perhaps it is better to buy it over here before we go. Supporting scottish fine products anyhow :)
RALFY ,you dont suggest to buy a lasanta , quinta ruban or any other glenmorangie? The question make me a reflection about my next bottle. return with my original or try others series. thanks a lot ralfy , we are many to like your reviews :-)
Marvellous stuff, it's been my Christmas regular for years. The Quinta Ruban is also excellent, got it for my 50th a few years back. The Lasanta is on my hitlist this year alongside the Original and it'll be good to compare. A belated thanks for the review and apologies for being nearly a decade and a half late for the party.
Ralfy, I found your reviews a couple months ago and have really enjoyed and respected your opinions. I have recently found a bottle of the Glenmorangie Ealanta. I am a fan of Glenmorangie and have heard great things about the Ealanta, about its uniqueness and am hoping you will give us your thoughts one day soon.
I have been enjoying Kentucky and Tennessee bourbon for decades until a friend gave me a taste of this and some Dewars. I was amazed at the complexity of flavors and find myself enjoying the single malts much more often. Agreeing with Neadrewthal. This needs a revisit.
@ralfystuff ralfy,which of these two would u prefer? glenmorangie 10 years or dalwhinnie 15 years, sorry for asking such ques, i can only afford one at the moment : (
Is there any point in saving unopened old version Glenmorangie 10 year bottles as collector's items or should I just give into temptation and drink it? A local liquor store is selling them for $35 a bottle and I had to pick one up.
I really like the other expressions. Allows you to try how different casks affect the maturation of the spirit. LaSanta is pretty good, Quinta Ruban is great and Nector D'Or is like a dessert whisky.
Thanks for the very quick reply, Ralf, and thanks for the information. I think Glenmorangie was a good place for me to start on single malts after deciding that most blends were too harsh for my palate.
hey ralfy, I bought a box set here in the US and it came with a mini of a glenmorangie "The Lasanta" it says that it is Extra Aged and Sherry cask, i am only assuming it is a little older(since age isn't mentioned), and I wanted to know if you had tried this or even heard of it.... also, if you like this try the balvenie 15, single oak cask that has a very similar taste and nose to that of this, but is richer in color, nose, and taste, especially wit regards to the spice...
Just re-watched this again and it's neat to see how Ralfy dis-recommends the double matured GM's only to later review and rate highly the Lasanta and Quinta Ruban :) Ralfy, the Nectar D'Or is 46% and actually mists when you add water. I can't imagine that it wouldn't pass your reviewing criteria ;)
Ralfy, just found this by way of a 4 x 100 ml sampler pack and liked it best. The 750 bottles were $34 so bought two and enjoying. Just found a 14 year Quinta Ruban at $55 and like much more than the 12 year that is in the sampler pack. That Nector D'or is very unusual and almost pretentious. Cheers!!
Ralfy, picked up a Glenmorangie "Lasanta" Sherry cask, 12 yo. instead of original. I have no comparison to make to the original. Have you tried it now in 2014? Impressions different than 2009?
I have tried both. The original is sweeter, while the Lasanta is a bit spicier and the floral notes are a bit less notable than the original. Both are good, but I definitely like the original better. A bit similar to The Glenlivet Naddura
I tried Glenmorangie original for the first time yesterday. I couldn't help but notice some delicious cocoa/toasty marshmallow notes towards the woodsy finish. After I added a few drops of water, however, they disappeared...no more adding water to Glenmorangie for me! The pure spirit was one of the best Scotch experiences I've had. Orange-apple spiced tea at the arrival, s'mores and toasty oak at the finish.
Just got the Glenmorangie La Santa! And I have to say. One of the best drams I have tried yet! I like it even more then the highland park 12 year old I recently purchased. It has a rounded character to it. Beautiful sherry nose with complex things happening. As it opens up some fruits appear. On the palate its like you are having desert with wine and scotch and chocolate all beautify woven together. Props to Glenmorangie indeed. They really do know what they are doing. Cheers!
Hi Ralfy, your videos inspired me to try single malts ... started with a 12yo Glenlivet and lasted night opened a Glenmorangie Original. Really nice dram I must say, prefer it over the 12yo Glenlivet. Can't elaborate much on different flavours due to my inexperience but I'll get there ;) Santa brought me a Highland Park 12yo and Ardbeg 10yo ... Can't wait to taste those, but I'll take it slowly.. Afraid I won't be able to fully appreciate those yet. Happy holidays!
You'll be pleased to know, under your recommendation...I have tried this as my first single malt after years of blended whiskeys not containing scotch. I was almost going "right along side" you during this review, and I was thinking cola with raddish before you got the words coke and bubble gum out of your mouth. I think this was a great place for me to start my scotch investigations after looking for Pultany unsuccessfully, I was able to find this one at my purveyer. Thank you ralfy!
I never really cared much for the Original (10yo) so when I was recently given a gift pack of four varieties of Glenmorangie I was a bit apprehensive. I tasted all of them and confirmed that I really don't 'get' the Original or the Lasanta but I quite enjoyed the Quinta Ruban and the Nectar D'or. They just had more flavour IMHO but that's the beauty of variety - there's something for everyone. Cheers!
Amazing what some folk are so "knowledgeable" about! I'm sure this chap really does know what he's talking about but it sounds too much like religious mumbo jumbo to me. Yes I'm a philistine for whom any single malt would be a waste of a clean glass. But if it floats your boat enjoy!
Ken Carpenter Ken, for floating my boats Single Malts are second to none and Ralfy is a great Ambassador for Malt Mates, aficionados of the water of live, and the Scottish Whisky industry. Followers of the Malt Maestro enjoy not only his opinions on Whisky and other spirits, but also his common sense views on some of the practices in the industry and of course his sense of humour. I don't smoke any more (since 1987) but I also enjoy his occasional reviews of cigars and pipe smoking - they bring back memories... :-) and finally, he advocates drinking in moderation too!
Brilliant Ralfy. Love all your vids. Just getting into the single malts. I'm in the penal colony, so short on good stores. So far I've purchased Glen Moray, Talisker (there's a bit of difference there!) and today, Glenlivet. I was interested in your comments about a sell off of a distillery and I am guessing you were speaking of Tamdhu? Have you ever reviewed this scotch? Also love to hear your thoughts on Oban. Good health
I got this for Christmas...I'm a newby when it comes to single malts. I received this and also a bottle of Talisker Storm. All I can say is wow. I never imagined there could be such a vast difference. I do find I like the Glenmorangie slightly chilled but I love to late arrival of heat at the back of my throat. Beautiful smooth finish, like someone with a soft glove on your cheek. The Talisker however is like a Scottish highlander knocking you square in the throat...but honestly...I love the differences. :)
Big fan of the Quinta Ruban here as well. The marketing might be a bit much, but 2 years in port pipes is substantial, not just perfume, and it's 46%, non-chill-filtered and almost certainly no caramel added (wrong color). It's a bit saccharin and the finish is a little odd, but still a pretty solid whisky for the price. The port maturation works really well with the high notes of the base malt.
Hi Ralfy!!! I've been following you channel for quite a long time and yesterday I bought my first bottle of whisky ever. I've decided to buy Glenmorangie 10 yo, but when I tasted it I've got nothing but the burning sensation of the alcohol (especially in the finishing) . I've used a wine tasting glass, added a bit water and let the spirit rest for 20 minutes and nothing changed . Any suggestions to improve my experience with scotch whisky. Cheers
***** Hi Ralfy!!! I'm glad to tell you that I revisited Glenmorangie but this time I added another tea spoon of water just to get rid of the burning feeling. This time I was able to capture the honey and the vanilla in the nose and when I tasted it I was able to distinguish a citrusy and sweet taste. Cheers
They are recently advertising it with half kilo of ice in its tumbler at the Edinburgh Airport. Is there a change how we can get the most noise and taste out of the whisky? :)
Hi Ralfy, I went back to the basic Glenmorangie after a tour around the range, & I think you are right, the basic is actually the best - though the next best is 'maybe' the poncy sounding nectar d'or
This is the one that got me started. I was (still am) a heavy bourbon drinker. But the complexity of this, with its sweet, citrus, and vanilla got me to appreciate the single malts.
Well, that's the first of your excellent videos where I've been able to taste the same Scotch while you review it. This one came as a gift pack with a couple of branded old-fashioned type glasses, which added to the attraction, though I prefer my stemmed tulip glasses, much like the ones you use. Lovely drop. You're obviously getting more out of it than I, but then again I dare say you've got the experience under your belt, which I don't have, I only really got serious about Scotch a month or so back when my son and I drove round Scotland in a Jag listening to Iain Banks' "Raw Spirit" on audiobook. We had a few excellent evenings getting to taste various brands, and picked up a few bottles duty free at Singapore on the way home. Now learning as much as I can, and your series of videos are definitely helping. Cheers!
A relative and I recently did a taste testing of the new 10 year with the old. The new style still has a nice sweetness to it but we felt it lacks the body and complexity of the old style. The difference was noticeable. We promptly went back to the local liquor store and bought the remaining 3 bottles of the old style along with an old style Sherry cask and Burgundy cask!
The 18 YO is one of the most amazing Scotch I've ever tasted. If you have had The Original, then you know the basic taste of the 18, but add the notes of honeysuckle, honeycomb, and a bit more of the citrus in the end. Also, the mouthfeel and smoothness is improved and allows for a bit of water to be added. I would never put water in The Original, but the 18 YO almost asks for it. A half ounce water will knock down the "vibrancy" a bit but expand the floras and smokiness.
Im not sippin on scotch, but some pale ale will do, looking for my first purchase of scotch, luckily in minnesota, theres a a scotch sale, : ) 20% off all glenfiddich glenmorangie and balvenie. all types, Any suggestions Ralfie? im looking for something to Enjoy with a cigar any strength. Im looking for sweeter notes, and a big fan of vanilla, heavy alchohol taste puts me off. Any advice would help, price is no matter. discovery welcome, Trust in true wizard of whiskey, thank Mr. Ralfie.
i have heard that the older ones tend not to be worth it (unless you are rich, in that case it's all good)..... I have a friend that tried my Balvenie 15 and didn't want to fork out the cash needed for it, but would know of anytthing relatively close to it, but easier on the wallet.?? thanx man...
@ralfystuff Hi Ralfy, what malt would you award the Signet? My friend and I are having a wager between OP/Balblair and the Glenmorangie Signet. P.s. your comment on "the Signet is expensive for what it is...", does that imply that it is expensive for marketing purposes? The reviews I have read claim that it is an amazing dram (i.e. Jim Murray's Whiskey bible). I know its hard to compare whiskeys because of their individual uniqueness, but a more elaborate explanation would help. Thank you!
Did you say 97 out of 100 ? Because I see 87 on the card
Hey Ralfy, I'm pretty new to the whiskey world. I have had many different blends over the past couple of years and watching your videos for awhile I thought I would give some single malt's a try. I decided on Glenmorangie to be my first one and I was surprised at how big the difference was between the blends I had tired before like Black Grouse and Dewar's and a single malt. Needless to say I sure am glad I ventured into the world of single malt's couldn't have done it without you.
What an oldy-goldy review! I think we're due for a re-review!
Third (+ 1,000,000) :)
and a review of Nectar D'Or! please :)
its not changed much, sometimes more raw oak, in sainsburys now for 30 quid a litre - you cant go wrong
Great to go back to old reviews Ralfy. I recently found a Glenmorangie Madeira from the 90's in an obscure liquor store in Miami which I'll open soon. The original is one of my favorite go-to malts together with Glenfiddich 12. Any thoughts about the old Madeira finish you can share before I open the bottle? Thanks!
I started with Glenmorangie Sonnalta, then the finishes....my first bottle of the Original was lacklustre but have returned to it and found it a delight. I doubt they'll upgrade it, though...not unless all other heavy hitters do they same for their opening age statement offerings. Ralfy should I take the cellophane wrapping off my unopened boxed bottle of Signet? Will be putting it aside for a rainy day. Thanks for all you do.
WhiskyWhistle . . . cellophane and whisky don't go together !
Haha will remove post haste! Thanks, Ralfy. -Mark
Tried some Glenmorangie original for the first time tonight - amazing! 4th single malt for this young beginner and I am truly blown away. Love the reviews Ralfy
Ralfy I respect your reviews greatly and agree with your assessment of the Glenmorangie Original. A sensational whisky at such a value price point. Truly. HOWEVER, I disagree with your words about the Quinta Ruban (port finish), which I found absolutely outstanding. I will confess I have not tasted the older bottlings of it, nor do I possess your experienced palate... but I still find it wonderful on MY nose and palate. Also value priced, at least here in the United States. As you said, the folks at Glenmorangie certainly know what they are doing.
hi Ralfy. great review! your reviews are very informative. would you recommend the glenmorangie 10 more than the glenlivet 15? from where i am from both have the same price. thank you!
loving your reviews as I begin my scotch education. I was thinking of buying a Glencairn glass, but my local liquor store has a great pack of Glenmorangie with two tumblers that are suitably tapered presumably to improve the aromatic experience. A good deal, or should I just go for the Glencairn?
Excellent review Ralfy. I was looking for a good single malt to try and your review inspired me to go with the Glenmorangie Original. The flavors and the nose you described sounded very much along the lines of what I like in a Scotch. Although I am not new to whiskeys, I am fairly new to single malts and your reviews break it down nicely. Cheers!
Ralfy: I have bought Glenmorangie Original many times but always in its current design (comes in the yellow box, modern design). Last week at the local liquor shop I saw a bottle of Glenmorangie from an older design and I feel the quality is significantly better. I wanted to know how old this bottle can be, or at least when the label was changed to the current one. This label is larger, comes with a smaller label on top saying "ten years old" and the cork has raised red letters. Thank you
You said 97/100, the card read 87/100. Drinking the Glenmorangie 18 ($100 US) tonight and i am wondering if there is better for a lower price and what those Scotches are? Thank You
Ralfy, do you rate any of the 'finish' products, at all? I found the Quinta Ruban very enjoyable, not so much with the Lasanta - although I was comparing it to my Glendronach 15 Revival (bought at your recommendation) and I've yet to try the Nectar D'or, although I have three bottle in my collection as they were 'reduced to clear' recently for £15 a piece! One other question though; one of my Nectar bottles is 15yr old, while the others are 12.? x
Hi Ralfy, quick question(s): Is the Glenmorangie Signet worth the hype and price? And how would it stack up against an Old Pultney 17 yo?
I love your reviews, they help me make good choices plus I learn loads!
Cheers!
Ok. So I'm moving from Speyside and am trying a Highland this time. The Glenmorangie Original 10 year... It wasn't planned. I went to get another bottle of Glenfiddich but they didn't have it in stock... So I decided to try another.
Currently I have tried (and enjoyed):
Glenlivet 12
Glenfiddich 12
I've only just started my Scotch drinking venture, but I'm enjoying every moment of it. I tend to drink it neat. As always, Ralfy... Thank you for posting these videos. They have helped me tremendously from learning how to properly drink it, to the history and other tidbits that go along with it.
I still don't have a proper Glencairn glass, just a tumbler... However I plan to rectify that oversight soon.
hey ralfy, which is a better whiskey??
i was just comparing the original glenmorangie and the 12 year old sherry oak macallan and was hoping to get your view on it in terms of taste and nose differences...
Hi Ralfy,
I am currently enjoying a dram of Quinta Ruban. Is there something I do not know? It is non chill-filtered, bottled at 46%, appears to be a craft presentation and I do not suspect E150.
The bottle has sat at about 50% full for about 12 months (at the back of my collection), and it has been sitting in the glass for about half an hour.
Although I am in no way an expert, it does not appear to be a second grade whisky masked by the port cask finish.
I would buy it again.
Hey Ralfy, I am a big fan of Glenmorangie. Are there any other good ones from Glenmorangie? I love the honey and vanilla in the Original.
Ralfy I have a chance to purchase the old version of the 10 year old (ie when it was called '10 year old' and not 'The Original'). Was it that much better in those days that its worth buying, even though I have already bought 'The Original' (and enjoyed it), or will it be much the same thing? Thanks.
Ralfy, huge fan here! Question for ya, you said that you are continuing a section of "readily available' whiskys, for a beginning whisky drinker, where would you suggest I start?
Hi Ralfy,
Is there any other whiskys which are similar in character to the Glenmorangie Original that you would recommend? Price not a big factor unless it's ridiculously rare/expensive. Thanks!
Ralfy what is your opinion of the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban? I really liked the old Port wood finish but i just can't make up my mind about this one. On first taste i got a lot of sweetness, candied fruits, chocolate, citrus and mint and the addition of water left a very nice oily, velvety texture. However i just felt the taste didn't really develop and just sort of stuck. Worth a drink but i was a bit disappointed after being so excited to try.
I'm a scotch noob, never cared for it, I tried a glass of this today and something clicked, I think I can suddenly taste why people like it finally.
. . . let the Journey continue, and good luck.
these are the best reviews ever. i was watching them on my phone in the supermarket while trying to decide what to buy. is there any easy way to find out what your top 5 readily available whiskies are? i was going to glenfiddich 15 yr but went for this one instead based on price and your score.
I started off drinking single malts a few years ago with this, but some on the internet are saying that it was sold recently and the quality is diminishing - as my first comment on one of your videos from which I've learned a huge amount, can I ask what you think about this?
Hey Ralfy,
I just picked up a bottle of the Glenmorangie Astar. Have you tried this one yet? It's bottled at 57.1%, so I'm trying to figure out if its a cask strength. I find it's amazingly smooth, althrough dry, for such a high alcohol content.
Tried this recently and found it underwhelming, a bit rough in fact and seemed very young. Bad bottle or is it going downhill?
I recently got a mini of HP 18 and I will say that while I love the flavors on the palette, the smoky pepper aftertaste might take some getting used to.
Hi Ralfy, any chance of an update on the Glenmorangie 10? I consider it a staple in my cabinet and never dissapoints. Interested in your views on this since your last review. cheers
Hi. I'm 20 years old and this was my first scotch whisky I bought (19 is legal age to buy liquor in Canada). I absolutely love the aroma and taste especially when you add a wee dash of water. It's just amazing.
Hello Ralfy. Well I took your advice and bought a bottle of Glenmorangie the original and Ardbeg 10 as my 2nd and 3rd malts ever.
Gave Glenmorangie a go last night and all Im getting is a little bit of toffee and what seems like perfume with a taste similar to Earl Grey tea?? I am a true novice but how long did it take to get all these flavours you discuss or maybe I am just too inexperienced...I intend to persevere.
The Original 10 is one of my favorites and I have found the Astar to basically be an improvement on all fronts and remarkably smooth for 57% which opens up wonderfully with water. In this video it sounds like you had not had it as it was too poncy for you and you were dismissing most of the others. Had you tried the Astar at the time of this video and if not, have you had it since?
Hey Ralfy, I know you've done a few re-reviews lately and was wondering if you'd ever consider doing Glenmorangie Original again? So many people, including myself, started their single malt journey with Glenmorangie. It seems as if there's a lot we can all learn about Scotland's best-selling whisky. If you don't get the chance, remember we are all thankful for everything you do and the useful information you provide!
@TheManInTheMasks Hi Man! I bought the same box set today and they are all 12 years old, except the Original which is 10. The ages were in the literature booklet inside the box. How did you like them?
Ralfy: They've got Glenmorangie 18yr at a local grocery (here in the States) on sale for $35. Seems like a good deal, but I came straight into Islays and my couple of forays outside the peat always leaves me disappointed. At $35 should I go for it anyway? What's your take on the 18yr?
New viewer, new to whiskey. I think I am on my 7th or 8th video in a row from you, and I can't stop! After watching all these videos, I really want to try this and the Balvenie. Which would you recommend first? Thanks!
I tried this one a few days back and was well impressed with it. Probably the best 10yo I've ever tasted. Maybe time for a re-review of this one? I've noticed a fair amount of vanilla in the finish, something you didn't find in this review.
hey ralfy what about the knockando? didn't find a review from you right away. I found the 12yrs right across the border in france for 26 €.
is it on your future review list? i wonder about the 18 and 21yrs. so far i like the 12yrs a lot!
greets from switzerland
I agree ralfy, this 10 year old is the best version from Morangie, is there anything else similiar you would recommend if I love this?
look out for Cragganmore 12yo
***** here in US Cragganmore 12yo is double the price of Glenmorangie Original (10yo). Not quite up to par at that price IMO.
How does this whisky compare to the older bottling of the original with the different label, before they were owned by Hennesse? I am told it is much different and am curious.
what brand of scotch would you recommend to someone just starting off drinking scotch? preferably something not too expensive. around 40-60$ a bottle here in america. something not too strong, preferably fruity, easy to drink? thanks
Hey Ralfy, I need your help. I just bought a bottle of Glenmorangie Burgundy Wood Finish at the local shop. Once home I wanted to check on the internet if I didn't over pay for it (it's one of those things I do), but I can't find any available anywhere. It's also the last bottle the shop had. So, is this out of production? They also had a bunch of Glenmorangie Madeira Wood Finish bottles which seem to be alot more expensive online then in that shop. Are those rare bottles? Are they any good?
I just purchased a bottle of this today and am a bit surprised by how different it is from what I remembered. All the versions of glenmorangie I've had at a few choice whiskey bars seemed much more rounded and mature. I added a little water, and even after a few minutes it's much more aggressively ethanol tasting. does it need to calm down in the bottle for a bit?
Yep, it just needed a few days. Depends on the Scotch, I assume. Generally, with heavily-peated scotches, which are the majority of what I buy, the first glass out of the bottle is the best one, in my opinion
Hey Ralfy,
I want to buy a Glenmorangie. Should I take the Original (37,90€), the Nectar d'Or (49,90€) or the Lasanta (47.90€). Don't wonder about the price. there are two tumblers included ;-).
By the Way: Your Reviews are great, keep up the good work :-)
Cheers.
Big fan of your video. Great job, Ralfy! I'm having the Glenmorangie Nectar D'or 12yr which I think is VERY good, what do you think?
my favourite base dram. bar none. FYI - you said 97/100 - but placed 87?
Ralfy! What's in all the small bottles and containers to your left in this video? Thanks for the great vids!
@ralfystuff
thank you for the reply. am i right in inferring that black bottle in your number 1 choice from the readily available supermarket stock? it seems to be the cheapest of the lot!
Ralfy, would you recommend Glenmorangie to someone who is new to scotch?
Sipping this malt now for the first time. Its very nice light and sweet, I like it alot. I get big apricot and citrus notes. First whisky Ive tasted apricot in.
Great review Ralfy. I tried the higher end Glenmorangie bottles and agree, it was not any better than the original 10yr. This is now my favorite Scotch after dinner, sitting in front of the fireplace, reading a novel. Along with Macallan 12, it's my two favorites at the moment. Before I got into Scotch I was a bourbon guy, and although I still enjoy bourbon, there is just a proper time for a good Scotch. Thanks Ralfy for the review!
Hello Ralfy, I recently picked up a bottle of Glenmorangie Lasanta that was on sale at the grocery store, because I can no longer find Glenmorangie with the burgundy finish. Then I read that many of these bottlings have some kind of sulfur contamination, giving them a sulfur flavor. Now I'm afraid to open it. I can only afford to buy a bottle of good scotch about once a year, so should I take it back?
I found a bottle of this on the clearance shelf at Wal-Mart. I followed my hunch and bought it, and found out the clearance price was a pretty good deal. It's strange whisky for Wal-Mart to carry, as they usually stick to Dewar's and Glenlivet and Johnny Walker. Unexpected for them might be J&B. Maybe it was just an odd bottle that found its way on the truck and they cleared it because they weren't going to carry it regular. My bottle says it is 43% (86 proof). I looked it up online, and the local liquor barn says it is 40%. I believe you, Ralfy, said it was 40% in this review. My clearance bottle looks exactly the same as yours, the liquor barn's and everywhere else. I can find no clear statement of proof on the Glenmorangie site. Any idea as to what this discrepancy is all about?
Thanks for this review. Purchased my first single malt today, never realized how smooth single malts are. Glenmorange original.
I finally took your advice Ralfy, and picked up a bottle of the 10 yr Original...Needless to say I went back to the liquor store, and picked up 3 more since it was on sale for $30 per bottle...Great stuff!
Thanks again for the recommendation Ralfy!
Ralfy, have you ever tried the Glenmorangie Lasanta? I've been sipping on it a little bit and I can not figure it out for the life of me (relatively inexperienced with single malt scotch).
i also found a box set for the glenfiddich 15 and was wondering if you have had it, it is $40 for the bottle,a mini 18 yr, and a glass. I have heard far more good thing about the 15 than the 12....
Ralfy is the 18 year old Glenmorangie any good? I note its not that strong and I suppose may be another case of a good malt spoiled...
me and my mates are going on a roadtrip in scotland this summer and I'm really looking forward to it. But what I'd like to know is what a bottle like this costs in scotland. Down here (the netherlands) we pay around 35 euros for it, but I'm curious how many pounds you have to put down in scotland. The reason I ask is that we are students who have to watch our spendings a little ;) and perhaps it is better to buy it over here before we go. Supporting scottish fine products anyhow :)
RALFY ,you dont suggest to buy a lasanta , quinta ruban or any other glenmorangie? The question make me a reflection about my next bottle. return with my original or try others series. thanks a lot ralfy , we are many to like your reviews :-)
Marvellous stuff, it's been my Christmas regular for years. The Quinta Ruban is also excellent, got it for my 50th a few years back. The Lasanta is on my hitlist this year alongside the Original and it'll be good to compare. A belated thanks for the review and apologies for being nearly a decade and a half late for the party.
i read that despite the light colour it does have caramel added to it and it is chill filtered.
is it true?
Ralfy, I found your reviews a couple months ago and have really enjoyed and respected your opinions. I have recently found a bottle of the Glenmorangie Ealanta. I am a fan of Glenmorangie and have heard great things about the Ealanta, about its uniqueness and am hoping you will give us your thoughts one day soon.
I have been enjoying Kentucky and Tennessee bourbon for decades until a friend gave me a taste of this and some Dewars. I was amazed at the complexity of flavors and find myself enjoying the single malts much more often. Agreeing with Neadrewthal. This needs a revisit.
@ralfystuff ralfy,which of these two would u prefer? glenmorangie 10 years or dalwhinnie 15 years, sorry for asking such ques, i can only afford one at the moment : (
Is there any point in saving unopened old version Glenmorangie 10 year bottles as collector's items or should I just give into temptation and drink it? A local liquor store is selling them for $35 a bottle and I had to pick one up.
I really like the other expressions. Allows you to try how different casks affect the maturation of the spirit. LaSanta is pretty good, Quinta Ruban is great and Nector D'Or is like a dessert whisky.
Thanks for the very quick reply, Ralf, and thanks for the information. I think Glenmorangie was a good place for me to start on single malts after deciding that most blends were too harsh for my palate.
hey ralfy, I bought a box set here in the US and it came with a mini of a glenmorangie "The Lasanta" it says that it is Extra Aged and Sherry cask, i am only assuming it is a little older(since age isn't mentioned), and I wanted to know if you had tried this or even heard of it....
also, if you like this try the balvenie 15, single oak cask that has a very similar taste and nose to that of this, but is richer in color, nose, and taste, especially wit regards to the spice...
Just re-watched this again and it's neat to see how Ralfy dis-recommends the double matured GM's only to later review and rate highly the Lasanta and Quinta Ruban :) Ralfy, the Nectar D'Or is 46% and actually mists when you add water. I can't imagine that it wouldn't pass your reviewing criteria ;)
Even after expanding my palate somewhat on various other whiskys, I still come back to this one. It's worth every cent, every time.
Ralfy, just found this by way of a 4 x 100 ml sampler pack and liked it best. The 750 bottles were $34 so bought two and enjoying. Just found a 14 year Quinta Ruban at $55 and like much more than the 12 year that is in the sampler pack. That Nector D'or is very unusual and almost pretentious. Cheers!!
Ralfy, picked up a Glenmorangie "Lasanta" Sherry cask, 12 yo. instead of original. I have no comparison to make to the original.
Have you tried it now in 2014? Impressions different than 2009?
not tried this recently.
I have tried both. The original is sweeter, while the Lasanta is a bit spicier and the floral notes are a bit less notable than the original. Both are good, but I definitely like the original better. A bit similar to The Glenlivet Naddura
anything 'Nadurra' is good !
I tried Glenmorangie original for the first time yesterday. I couldn't help but notice some delicious cocoa/toasty marshmallow notes towards the woodsy finish. After I added a few drops of water, however, they disappeared...no more adding water to Glenmorangie for me! The pure spirit was one of the best Scotch experiences I've had. Orange-apple spiced tea at the arrival, s'mores and toasty oak at the finish.
Just got the Glenmorangie La Santa! And I have to say. One of the best drams I have tried yet! I like it even more then the highland park 12 year old I recently purchased. It has a rounded character to it. Beautiful sherry nose with complex things happening. As it opens up some fruits appear. On the palate its like you are having desert with wine and scotch and chocolate all beautify woven together. Props to Glenmorangie indeed. They really do know what they are doing. Cheers!
have you tried their "extra matured" versions? Could be a good mini series if you ask me. I quite enjoy the "Quinta Ruban" matured in port wood.
Hi Ralfy, your videos inspired me to try single malts ... started with a 12yo Glenlivet and lasted night opened a Glenmorangie Original. Really nice dram I must say, prefer it over the 12yo Glenlivet. Can't elaborate much on different flavours due to my inexperience but I'll get there ;) Santa brought me a Highland Park 12yo and Ardbeg 10yo ... Can't wait to taste those, but I'll take it slowly.. Afraid I won't be able to fully appreciate those yet.
Happy holidays!
Hi Ralphy, I'm presuming your rating for this review is as you displayed it at 87, but you did say 97, can you confirm?
You'll be pleased to know, under your recommendation...I have tried this as my first single malt after years of blended whiskeys not containing scotch. I was almost going "right along side" you during this review, and I was thinking cola with raddish before you got the words coke and bubble gum out of your mouth. I think this was a great place for me to start my scotch investigations after looking for Pultany unsuccessfully, I was able to find this one at my purveyer. Thank you ralfy!
This can be a great table scotch in my opinion. After a tough day at work, Glenmorangie 10 is a great whisky for relaxing and enjoying.
I never really cared much for the Original (10yo) so when I was recently given a gift pack of four varieties of Glenmorangie I was a bit apprehensive. I tasted all of them and confirmed that I really don't 'get' the Original or the Lasanta but I quite enjoyed the Quinta Ruban and the Nectar D'or. They just had more flavour IMHO but that's the beauty of variety - there's something for everyone. Cheers!
Amazing what some folk are so "knowledgeable" about! I'm sure this chap really does know what he's talking about but it sounds too much like religious mumbo jumbo to me. Yes I'm a philistine for whom any single malt would be a waste of a clean glass. But if it floats your boat enjoy!
Ken Carpenter
Ken, for floating my boats Single Malts are second to none and Ralfy is a great Ambassador for Malt Mates, aficionados of the water of live, and the Scottish Whisky industry. Followers of the Malt Maestro enjoy not only his opinions on Whisky and other spirits, but also his common sense views on some of the practices in the industry and of course his sense of humour. I don't smoke any more (since 1987) but I also enjoy his occasional reviews of cigars and pipe smoking - they bring back memories... :-) and finally, he advocates drinking in moderation too!
Bottoms up!
Brilliant Ralfy. Love all your vids. Just getting into the single malts. I'm in the penal colony, so short on good stores. So far I've purchased Glen Moray, Talisker (there's a bit of difference there!) and today, Glenlivet. I was interested in your comments about a sell off of a distillery and I am guessing you were speaking of Tamdhu? Have you ever reviewed this scotch? Also love to hear your thoughts on Oban. Good health
I'm new to scotch and decided that this was going to be my first scotch. oh boy, this is one hell of a whiskey!
Hi Ralfy, did you try Glenmorangie Signet? is it worth its money?
thanks
I got this for Christmas...I'm a newby when it comes to single malts. I received this and also a bottle of Talisker Storm. All I can say is wow. I never imagined there could be such a vast difference. I do find I like the Glenmorangie slightly chilled but I love to late arrival of heat at the back of my throat. Beautiful smooth finish, like someone with a soft glove on your cheek. The Talisker however is like a Scottish highlander knocking you square in the throat...but honestly...I love the differences. :)
Big fan of the Quinta Ruban here as well. The marketing might be a bit much, but 2 years in port pipes is substantial, not just perfume, and it's 46%, non-chill-filtered and almost certainly no caramel added (wrong color). It's a bit saccharin and the finish is a little odd, but still a pretty solid whisky for the price. The port maturation works really well with the high notes of the base malt.
Hi Ralfy!!! I've been following you channel for quite a long time and yesterday I bought my first bottle of whisky ever. I've decided to buy Glenmorangie 10 yo, but when I tasted it I've got nothing but the burning sensation of the alcohol (especially in the finishing) . I've used a wine tasting glass, added a bit water and let the spirit rest for 20 minutes and nothing changed . Any suggestions to improve my experience with scotch whisky.
Cheers
patience, practice, perseverance.
***** Hi Ralfy!!! I'm glad to tell you that I revisited Glenmorangie but this time I added another tea spoon of water just to get rid of the burning feeling. This time I was able to capture the honey and the vanilla in the nose and when I tasted it I was able to distinguish a citrusy and sweet taste.
Cheers
ec06215 Add alot of water, get slightly pissed and add less water. Thats 1 of the ways how you can learn to enjoy it.
I'm just curious why you add water if it's 40 percent if they have already watered it down why add water?
. . . to get a bit more out of it in smell and taste, but at 40% I can only add very little !
They are recently advertising it with half kilo of ice in its tumbler at the Edinburgh Airport.
Is there a change how we can get the most noise and taste out of the whisky? :)
I heard you say that this is 40% but mine came in at 43% I bought it here in the usa. I dont know what to make of it I just thought I would tell you.
Hi Ralfy, I went back to the basic Glenmorangie after a tour around the range, & I think you are right, the basic is actually the best - though the next best is 'maybe' the poncy sounding nectar d'or
This is the one that got me started. I was (still am) a heavy bourbon drinker. But the complexity of this, with its sweet, citrus, and vanilla got me to appreciate the single malts.
Well, that's the first of your excellent videos where I've been able to taste the same Scotch while you review it.
This one came as a gift pack with a couple of branded old-fashioned type glasses, which added to the attraction, though I prefer my stemmed tulip glasses, much like the ones you use.
Lovely drop. You're obviously getting more out of it than I, but then again I dare say you've got the experience under your belt, which I don't have,
I only really got serious about Scotch a month or so back when my son and I drove round Scotland in a Jag listening to Iain Banks' "Raw Spirit" on audiobook. We had a few excellent evenings getting to taste various brands, and picked up a few bottles duty free at Singapore on the way home.
Now learning as much as I can, and your series of videos are definitely helping.
Cheers!
will you please review the glenmorangie lasanta extra matured 12 years...Picked some up today and am curious about your thoughts.
Whats your high rate till now for a single and blended whiskey?
A relative and I recently did a taste testing of the new 10 year with the old. The new style still has a nice sweetness to it but we felt it lacks the body and complexity of the old style. The difference was noticeable. We promptly went back to the local liquor store and bought the remaining 3 bottles of the old style along with an old style Sherry cask and Burgundy cask!
The 18 YO is one of the most amazing Scotch I've ever tasted. If you have had The Original, then you know the basic taste of the 18, but add the notes of honeysuckle, honeycomb, and a bit more of the citrus in the end. Also, the mouthfeel and smoothness is improved and allows for a bit of water to be added. I would never put water in The Original, but the 18 YO almost asks for it. A half ounce water will knock down the "vibrancy" a bit but expand the floras and smokiness.
Im not sippin on scotch, but some pale ale will do, looking for my first purchase of scotch, luckily in minnesota, theres a a scotch sale, : )
20% off all glenfiddich glenmorangie and balvenie. all types,
Any suggestions Ralfie? im looking for something to Enjoy with a cigar any strength.
Im looking for sweeter notes, and a big fan of vanilla, heavy alchohol taste puts me off.
Any advice would help, price is no matter. discovery welcome,
Trust in true wizard of whiskey, thank Mr. Ralfie.
i have heard that the older ones tend not to be worth it (unless you are rich, in that case it's all good)..... I have a friend that tried my Balvenie 15 and didn't want to fork out the cash needed for it, but would know of anytthing relatively close to it, but easier on the wallet.?? thanx man...
@ralfystuff
Hi Ralfy, what malt would you award the Signet? My friend and I are having a wager between OP/Balblair and the Glenmorangie Signet.
P.s. your comment on "the Signet is expensive for what it is...", does that imply that it is expensive for marketing purposes? The reviews I have read claim that it is an amazing dram (i.e. Jim Murray's Whiskey bible). I know its hard to compare whiskeys because of their individual uniqueness, but a more elaborate explanation would help.
Thank you!