Is Glenmorangie a peaty whiskey?

Answered by Nicholas Phillips

Glenmorangie is a renowned whisky brand that is highly regarded for its distinct flavor profile. When it comes to peatiness, Glenmorangie whiskies are actually known for being unpeated. This means that they do not have that distinct smoky or peaty flavor that is commonly associated with certain types of Scotch whiskies.

Unlike some other distilleries that produce a range of whiskies with different levels of peatiness, Glenmorangie has made a deliberate decision to focus on creating whiskies that are not smoky. This allows them to highlight other flavors and characteristics of the spirit, such as its fruity, floral, and honeyed notes.

It's important to note that the absence of peatiness in Glenmorangie whiskies does not make them any less complex or enjoyable. In fact, many whisky enthusiasts appreciate the clean and elegant flavors that Glenmorangie offers. Each expression in their range has its own unique flavor profile, with different cask finishes and maturation methods adding further layers of complexity.

One of the reasons why Glenmorangie whiskies are unpeated is due to the fact that the distillery uses tall copper stills, which allow for a purer and smoother spirit to be produced. This traditional distillation process results in a delicate and refined whisky that showcases the natural flavors of the malted barley and the casks in which it is aged.

As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing a wide range of whiskies, including those from Glenmorangie. While I do enjoy a peaty whisky from time to time, I appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating an unpeated whisky like Glenmorangie. The absence of smokiness allows other flavors to shine through, making for a different and equally enjoyable drinking experience.

Glenmorangie is not a peaty whisky. It is known for its unpeated expressions that showcase a range of flavors beyond the smoky notes commonly associated with Scotch whiskies. Whether you prefer a smoky or non-smoky whisky, Glenmorangie offers a selection of whiskies that are sure to satisfy any whisky connoisseur.