Glenmorangie Companta

I frequently browse the vast selection at whisky auctions, scrolling through thousands of bottles almost daily as a pastime. I've consistently observed this bottle fetching a significant price, and I've always wondered why, as Glenmorangie Lasanta is, in my opinion, the least impressive 'Glenmo,' despite being aged in PX sherry, which is actually my preferred sherry maturation. I find Lasanta to be quite underwhelming. After some research, I realized my lack of knowledge: Companta isn't aged in PX sherry but rather in Grand Cru de Clos de Tart casks (whatever that signifies) and in Côtes du Rhône barrels (which is actually a fortified wine). It's bottled at 46% ABV and has a beautiful red hue. On the nose, it's AMAZING. Cherry syrup, milk chocolate; intensely sherried (even though it's not sherry, it gives that impression). Lemon peel emerged after five seconds. It's like the liquid center of 'bubbalo gum.' After an initial sip, a more floral profile emerged. Maraschino Cherries, vanilla cream, and vanilla wet cake. Outstanding. On the palate, Cherries, incredibly sweet. It's so sweet that it actually reminds me of PX sherry. A second sip had a slightly winey, subtly mineral character. The aftertaste provides a perfect conclusion to a wonderful dram. Fortified wine notes, glazed pork, and a delightful ginger explosion. It's very winey. Overall, I was genuinely surprised by how exceptional this is. I believe the average price is around 400 dollars, but in my estimation, it's entirely worth it. If you enjoy a sweet whisky, this is the one you've been searching for. A marvelous single malt, earning a score of 96 out of 100.

Wow what a full, rich, fruity nose. I haven’t even tasted it yet, but I needed to note the nose right away because it smells so good. Dark fruit and cinnamon spice are heavy. I could just smell it all day. On the taste, an explosion of flavor in my mouth. Rich dark fruit once again. There’s a slight hint of barley mustiness toward the end, then it quickly gives way to a long, oily finish. Rich, velvety mouthfeel throughout. It’s like the 12 yr Quinta Ruban, but better. More wood spice and oily richness. Damn fine scotch. P.S. I’m halfway through the dram and I keep going back to how delightfully fruity and cinnamony that nose is. Damn.

NOSE Fruit-flavored candies, honeyed wafer, baking spice, leather, cocoa, citrus peel, and some vanilla frosting and char. A mild sugary sweetness connects everything, reaching moments of delightful dark sweetness. PALATE Dried dark fruit, copper, fruit-flavored candies, honeyed wafer, baking spice, leather, cocoa, citrus peel, and some vanilla frosting and char. There's an essence (dark fruit + honeyed wafer) that evokes thoughts of blueberry pie. It does not taste like blueberry pie, but the combination of flavors suggests it. FINISH Medium to dark fruit, honeyed wafer, and copper fade warmly and with an oily quality.

I had long desired to sample it, but when it became apparent I had missed all opportunities, I found it at a restaurant bar and couldn't resist ordering a serving. Perfect! I believe the fact that the whisky had been in a half-empty bottle for a while and had oxidized somewhat also contributed, making it ideally smooth. I've never experienced dark chocolate notes so clearly in a whisky before. Dark chocolate with orange. A long, warming finish. It reminded me why I'm a fan of this brand. It has become my ultimate favorite, alongside another one.

Lovely Christmas flavor profile. Nose: Raisins, Raspberries, Mulled Wine, Cloves, Christmas Cakes, Anise, Prunes, Dates, Luxardo Cherries, Honey, Vanilla, Pineapples. Palate: Vanilla, Honey, Milk Chocolate, Prunes, Raisins, Cranberries, Hazelnuts, Cinnamon, Cloves, Figs, Grapefruit. Finish: Raisins, Prunes, Milk Chocolate, Honey, Figs, Grapefruit, Sultanas, Pineapples, Bananas, Coconuts, Dates.

What a treasure. Beautiful Marron red color, presenting like a whiskey with profound flavors. Clean, smooth, and not at all harsh. Sweet notes of honey, cantaloupe, fig, and plum. Delicate floral hints appear and disappear, giving this its unique finish.