Glenmorangie Astar, Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 2017 Release, Non Chill Filtered, 700ml, 52.5% ABV

Recognised as pioneer in cask management, Glenmorangie brought forth in 2008 a much-coveted whisky, Glenmorangie Astar (Scots Gaelic for +journey+), in which the delicate floral spirit of Glenmorangie meets entirely bespoke casks hewn from oak trees from the Ozark mountains of Missouri. Ever since, Dr Bill Lumsden, Director of Distilling and Whisky Creation, has longed to revisit the whisky's silken depths. Yet such casks are rare. In Glenmorangie Astar's triumphant return as a 2017 limited edition release, Dr Bill's dedication brings a newfound richness and complexity to an exalted single malt. Aroma: Rich in toffee and creme-brulee, drizzled with fresh menthol, warm cinnamon and deep aniseed spices. Mint humbugs and a sweet honey-lemon complexity follows. Taste: Creme-brulee with a burst of mouth-watering pineapple, poached pears and apricots, smothered with vanilla custard. Finish: The finish is long and smooth with a lingering mix of honey and almond, coconut ice and traces of aniseed.