Glenmorangie debuts Signet Reserve
Moët Hennessy-owned Glenmorangie has unveiled its latest innovation, Signet Reserve, finished in Pedro Ximénez (PX) Sherry casks.
The original Signet was launched in 2008 and was inspired by the 'beguiling flavour of his favourite freshly brewed Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee'. Dr Bill Lumsden, head of whisky creation at Glenmorangie, created Signet, which uses high-roast 'chocolate' malted barley to bring a darker, deeper world of flavour to single malt whisky. For one week each year, the distillery is dedicated entirely to creating the 'precious' malt, and everything else is paused. As the air fills with aromas more familiar in an Italian coffee bar, Signet’s espresso-like spirit is distilled. “Many years ago, we challenged ourselves to explore the dark side of Glenmorangie’s flavour profile. Inspired by the beguiling flavours of freshly brewed coffee, our award-winning Signet was born," said Lumsden. "Now, by ageing Glenmorangie Signet further in Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks, we are taking that whisky’s hallmark style even deeper into deliciousness. "With its notes of chocolate truffles, toffee, fudge and tiramisu, Glenmorangie Signet Reserve offers layers of luxurious decadence, which will be enjoyed by whisky lovers old and new.” The new expression is created by filling fully matured Signet single malt, aged in Bourbon, Sherry, and virgin oak casks, into PX casks for extra maturation. Signet Reserve’s packaging is inspired by the expression's 'indulgent richness' and contrasts hues of black and gold against technicolour line work, evoking the PX cask influence. Glenmorangie Signet Reserve is offered at 46% ABV, with an RRP of £345 (US$446). The new expression will be available from the end of July 2024 on the distillery's website and visitor centre, as well as at the Glenmorangie Boutique in London Heathrow Terminal 2 and select outlets. Earlier this year, Glenmorangie replaced its flagship 10-year-old expression, The Original, with a 12-year-old whisky and collaborated with botanical artist Azuma Makoto to create a limited edition.
