Dr Bill Lumsden unpacks Glenmorangie's latest whisky at a recent launch
For whisky lovers, Dr Bill Lumsden is more than just a distiller - he’s a legend who has reshaped the world of single malts with his daring creativity.
Frequently referred to as "the rock star of whisky" and "the mad scientist" at Glenmorangie, Lumsden's inventive techniques with cask finishes and his fusion of science and creativity have distinguished the brand in the industry.
With nearly forty years of expertise, he’s celebrated for his daring and unorthodox approach to whisky-making.
Glenmorangie is noted for its meticulous ageing process. Many of their whiskies are matured in American oak barrels, which impart rich vanilla and caramel flavours.
In August, whisky enthusiasts were treated to something special as Lumsden launched Glenmorangie’s Triple Cask Reserve and its re-imagined Original 12-Year-Old in the Swartberg Mountains, Western Cape.
Known for pushing boundaries, he continues innovate while honouring Glenmorangie’s heritage.
The new Triple Cask Reserve showcases Lumsden’s creativity, combining ex-bourbon, newly charred virgin oak and rare ex-rye whisky casks.
The result is a harmonious single malt with notes of candied orange peel, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, offering a delightful experience whether enjoyed neat, on ice, or in a delicious cocktail.
Alongside it, Glenmorangie introduced The Original 12-Year-Old, an updated version of their classic 10-Year-Old single malt.
With an extra two years of ageing, this whisky offers a smoother, creamier profile with hints of vanilla, citrus, honey, and peach.
The enhanced depth of flavour has earned The Original 12-Year-Old a gold medal at the 2024 World Whiskies Awards, making it a must-try for connoisseurs.
The Swartberg Mountains provided an ideal setting for the whisky launch. Lumsden explained the choice of location: “We chose that location for one very good and specific reason. And that’s because on the game reserve they have a beautiful herd of giraffes. And the giraffe is the mascot of the Glenmorangie brand.”
He added: “The giraffe is uniquely linked to our distilling process. Our distillery has the tallest pot stills of any whisky distillery in Scotland.
“We have very tall, slender necks, just like the necks of a giraffe. We adopted the mascot of the giraffe to show pride in what gives the brand’s spirit its delicate and perfumed quality.”
The launch also featured a whisky tasting at Patat Restaurant at Swartberg Country Manor, where guests were treated to a menu crafted to perfectly complement Glenmorangie’s latest whiskies.
Picture this: tender ostrich, succulent lamb shank, and a symphony of flavours designed to elevate each sip of the new releases.
Ever the whisky aficionado, he suggested savouring the spirits without a “chaser” to truly unlock their depth and complexity.
The restaurant’s unique charm, set on a property with its very own ostrich farm, made the experience all the more authentic.
To truly appreciate the whisky, start by admiring its rich colour - hold it up to the light like a connoisseur.
Next, give it a gentle swirl to release those alluring aromas, a process the experts refer to as the “nose”. Then, take a deep sniff, take a sip and let it roll around your mouth before swallowing.
So, next time you’re ready to enjoy a fine dram, remember the magic behind the bottle and the story of the giraffe that symbolizes Glenmorangie’s unique distilling artistry.
Cheers to that!