Whisky and wine may seem like an odd pairing, but Glenmorangie’s master distiller, Dr. Bill Lumsden, has proved they can coexist beautifully. His latest creation, the Glenmorangie Pursuit of Passion Wine Cask Collection, brings together the best of both worlds, crafting a series of whiskies finished in wine casks from some of Europe’s finest wine regions.
This exclusive collection consists of three whiskies, aged in prestigious wine casks from Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Piedmont, and has been released in a limited edition of only 600 sets. With a price tag of £7,740 (approx. $10,200), this is a whisky experience designed for the most discerning collectors and enthusiasts.
A Long Journey from Experiment to Masterpiece
Dr. Bill Lumsden’s fascination with wine cask finishing began in the early days of his tenure at Glenmorangie, which he joined in 1995. A true lover of both fine wine and Scotch whisky, Lumsden set out on an ambitious project—sourcing wine casks from some of Europe’s most revered regions, including Margaux, Corton-Charlemagne, and Barbaresco.
Unlike traditional wine cask finishes, which typically last only a few months, the whiskies in the Pursuit of Passion collection spent a minimum of 18 years in these casks. This lengthy aging process has completely transformed the character of Glenmorangie’s typically light and fruity whisky into bold, full-bodied expressions.
The Prestige of Wine Cask Finishing
Each of the three whiskies in the Pursuit of Passion series showcases the distinct influence of its wine cask. The Margaux-finished whisky (aged 29 years) is rich and complex, with layers of dark fruits and tannins. The Corton-Charlemagne (aged 28 years) delivers notes of orchard fruits and a buttery texture, while the Barbaresco (aged 27 years) offers a velvety mouthfeel with deep, savory flavors.
The decision to age the whiskies in these prestigious wine casks for such an extended period was a bold move, but one that has paid off. Glenmorangie has pushed the boundaries of whisky-making, creating expressions that are unrecognizable from their original form, yet remarkable in their complexity and richness.
A Collector’s Dream
Housed in a beautifully designed oak presentation case, with artwork inspired by the three wine regions, the Pursuit of Passion Wine Cask Collection is not just a whisky, but a work of art. For collectors and oenophiles alike, it offers a unique opportunity to experience the convergence of two of the world’s finest beverages.
Glenmorangie’s Pursuit of Passion is more than just a whisky—it’s a testament to the artistry and innovation that defines modern Scotch whisky-making.
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