Glenmorangie Astar 2017 (52.5%): The original Astar was released in 2008 and with Sonnalta PX it was probably one of my all time favorite Glenmorangie bottlings. Since it got discontinued in 2012 I was hoping that it will come back one day, and here it is... Don't know if it will be as good as the earlier version but I am definitely psyched to crack open this bottle. Like the earlier release the whisky is again matured in lightly charred, heavily toasted, ex-bourbon barrels made from specifically selected and air seasoned slow growth oak trees of Ozark Mountains in Missouri.Color: Chardonnay, yellow gold.
Nose: Wet wool, marzipan and fresh ginger slices. Concorde pears, toasted oak and coconut water. After adding a couple drops of water I first nose freshly opened latex paint can but it disappears quickly. Golden delicious apples, hard candies and wintergreen Altoids. Loving it...
Palate: Ginger drops, cinnamon, toasted almonds and woolen scarf. Cream soda and lemongrass. Water brings out vanilla and dry oak notes stronger. Nutmeg, hazelnut spread and ground ginger. White pepper and spearmint leaves.
Finish: Mint, toasted nuts and salted caramel drops.
Overall: It's been quite a while since I reviewed the first release and it is quite possible that my palate and references changed a lot since then but after checking my tasting notes from years ago and compare them with what I have scribbled above I can say that this release is tad less sweet but saltier and less fruity but spicier. I absolutely loved it... Don't know if it is going to be around for a longer period or not but didn't want to risk it I already ordered a second bottle. It is definitely one of the best single malts released in last 12 months. Kudos to Dr. Bill Lumsden again...
Price: $100
Price: $100
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