A little background

Glenmorangie is a distillery based in the Highland region of Scotland. It was founded in 1843, and has been producing single malt scotch whisky ever since. The Quinta Ruban 14 Years Old is first aged in ex-bourbon barrels before it’s finished in used ruby port casks. According to Glenmorangie, the ex-bourbon barrels gives this whisky its smooth and fruity notes, while the ruby port casks are responsible for the velvity depth. The Quinta Ruban 14 Years Old is non-chill filtered, bottled at 92 proof, and carries a retail price of around $75 USD.

(Tasted neat from a Cradle Glass)

Color

Rose’ Wine

Nose

A wonderful nose with a lot of port wine sweetness and mint chocolate. Notes of spice, tangerine, sandalwood, and nutmeg come through as well. The nose is complex and balanced.

Palate

The mouthfeel is initially full bodied with a spice that coats the entire mouth. Mint chocolate flavors shine through, along with nutty and orange citrus notes. This whisky is velvety and incredibly smooth on the palate, making it difficult to not go back for more!

Finish

The finish is long, silky and complex. Mint chocolate and orange citrus notes from the palate carry through to the finish. The last flavors to linger are nutty port wine characteristics.

In closing

Wow, what a beautiful whisky and full tasting experience. It’s not often that the nose, palate, and finish all come together and create a perfectly balanced dram. The minty chocolate notes have wonderful influence on this scotch from the nose all the way to the finish. For me, this is a perfect single malt to enjoy in the evening following a wonderful meal. For the price I feel this is a bottle that’s certainly worth picking up should you come across one on the shelf!