In the heart of Speyside, the Glen Moray distillery has unveiled two exceptional additions to its Warehouse 1 Collection, inviting whisky enthusiasts on a captivating exploration of Rioja wine cask influences. This momentous launch was celebrated in Sydney, where Glen Moray’s Global Brand Ambassador, Iain Allan, offered a masterclass in whisky appreciation, blending the rich heritage of Speyside with contemporary innovation.
Iain Allan, a true son of Speyside, brings a deep-seated passion for whisky that stems from his extensive experience, including a notable tenure at Macallan.
As both the visitor center manager and brand ambassador at Glen Moray, Iain has become the embodiment of the distillery’s storied legacy and its forward-thinking spirit.
Glen Moray, often celebrated for its approachable core range, has ventured into new, exciting territories under Iain’s guidance, particularly in the realm of cask experimentation.
The latest expressions, Glen Moray 2015 Rioja Matured and Glen Moray 2012 Peated Rioja Finish, are a testament to the distillery’s innovative prowess.
These limited edition, small-batch whiskies represent the culmination of Glen Moray’s early experiments with Spanish wine casks, a bold step that promises to delight and intrigue whisky aficionados.
Glen Moray 2015 Rioja Matured
Glen Moray 2015 Rioja Matured is an extraordinary expression that captivates the connoisseur's palate with its profound complexity. Aged for a full eight years exclusively in Rioja casks, this whisky reaches an impressive cask strength of 59.8% ABV. From the first sip, it reveals a symphony of deep, luscious flavors, each note more intriguing than the last.
Imagine the rich tapestry of a late summer's evening, where the air is filled with the intoxicating aromas of ripe cherries and sun-warmed plums.
This whisky encapsulates that very essence, delivering a fruit-forward profile that is both vibrant and indulgent. The cherries impart a sweet, slightly tart edge, while the plums bring a succulent, mellow sweetness that rounds out the experience beautifully.
But the journey doesn't end there. Interwoven with these fruit notes is a nuanced layer of leather, adding a sophisticated, earthy depth that speaks of old libraries and well-worn armchairs. This element of leather introduces a tactile quality to the flavor profile, grounding the fruit's exuberance with a sense of aged refinement.
A Smoky Elegance: Glen Moray 2012 Peated Rioja Finish
This remarkable 11-year-old whisky ventures into uncharted territory for the distillery, offering a distinctive and sophisticated twist on traditional flavors. Crafted with lightly peated barley and meticulously finished in Rioja wine casks, it achieves an impressive 58.8% ABV.
Imagine a delicate wisp of smoke curling through the air, subtly entwining with the rich, juicy essence of ripe plums. This whisky brings that vision to life, presenting a harmonious blend where gentle smokiness meets lush fruitiness. The peat introduces a refined, smoky note that doesn't overpower but rather complements the sweet, plummy flavors, creating a balance that is both elegant and intriguing.
As you savor each sip, the initial smoky embrace gives way to the velvety smoothness of the plum, offering a complex and layered tasting experience. The Rioja cask finish imparts a touch of sophistication, adding depth and richness to the overall profile. This interplay of smoke and fruit challenges the conventional perceptions of Glen Moray, showcasing the distillery's innovative spirit and dedication to crafting exceptional whiskies.
Each pour from the Warehouse 1 Collection is a journey into the experimental heart of Glen Moray, where tradition meets innovation, and every dram tells a story of craft and curiosity.
These new releases from Glen Moray invite whisky enthusiasts to delve deeper into the possibilities of cask maturation. The Rioja casks have imparted unique characteristics to these whiskies, showcasing the distillery’s commitment to pushing boundaries while honoring its roots in the rich landscape of Speyside. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Glen Moray’s latest expressions promise a rich and rewarding experience, a testament to the artistry and passion that define this historic distillery.
On terra australis, Glen Moray's offerings can be obtained from The Whisky List.
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Words by AW.
Photo courtesy of AW and Glen Moray.