Glenmorangie Astar Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2017 Release

Originally offered in 2008 but discontinued in 2012. Now it's back, but confirmed as a once-off. Collector's note: Don't expect this to return. Like its predecessor, the 2017 release is fully aged in bespoke American oak x Bourbon casks sourced from the Ozark mountains in Missouri, and bottled at a high strength with zero chill filtration.

Speaking about the new Astar, Dr Bill Lumsden commented, “At Glenmorangie we are always searching for perfection – and Astar’s first release, entirely matured in our designer casks, was a momentous step on our journey. I’m delighted to be able to share the 2017 release with more single malt lovers – and to celebrate with them the whisky’s wonderfully creamy, spicy aromas and silky tastes of soft fruit smothered with vanilla custard.”

Tasting note: Brilliant gold. Dazzles in the glass. Thick tears. Once past the flare of alcohol, there's gorgeous aromas of vanilla bean, caramel fudge and bounty bar with aeration drawing out bitter cocoa, peppermint and light cinnamon warmth. Slightly hollow on entry, following through to an intense yet keenly balanced, honey and vanilla-soaked malt. No shortage of oak input, with sweet woody notes rounding out the aftertaste at length. While some of Glenmorangie's subtleties are lost, this follow up remains true to the original - and almost as good. 52.5% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... not sure you'll find a more demure 'Morangie than this nose wise... Astar has moved a long way from the first bottling which left me scratching my head. This is one of the maltiest of all their range, though the lightness of touch means that any bitterness can be too easily detected.
93 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2018