Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old

Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old: A Rich Highland Single Malt with Port Cask Charm

The Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old is a single malt Scotch whisky renowned for its luxurious smoothness and depth of flavour. Crafted in the revered Highland distillery of Glenmorangie, this expression undergoes a unique maturation process that marries classic American oak cask ageing with a finishing touch in ruby Port pipes. The result is a captivating whisky unlike any other, boasting a symphony of rich, fruity notes intertwined with hints of spice and chocolate.

A Maturation Story in Two Acts

The heart of the Quinta Ruban's character lies in its innovative maturation process. The whisky begins its journey in ex-bourbon casks, where it spends a decade gently absorbing the vanilla and subtle spice characteristics of the American oak. This initial maturation lays the foundation for the whisky's smoothness and creates a base of gentle sweetness.

In the second act, the spirit embarks on a transformative journey. It is transferred to specially selected ruby Port pipes, sourced from Portugal's prestigious Quintas. These casks, previously used to mature fortified wines, impart a whole new dimension of flavour to the whisky. The ruby Port influence infuses the spirit with vibrant notes of red berries, plums, and dark chocolate, while also enriching the texture with a velvety smoothness.

Tasting Notes: A Journey for the Senses

• Colour: Rich amber with a hint of ruby red, reflecting the influence of the Port cask finish.
• Nose: Opens with an inviting aroma of ripe red berries, such as strawberries and raspberries, followed by hints of orange peel and zesty citrus. Underlying notes of vanilla and toasted oak emerge from the American oak maturation, creating a complex and enticing bouquet.
• Palate: The first sip delivers a burst of juicy red fruits, complemented by a wave of decadent dark chocolate. Hints of cinnamon and nutmeg add a touch of warmth, while the underlying vanilla sweetness from the bourbon casks provides a balancing counterpoint. The texture is incredibly smooth and luxurious, with a velvety mouthfeel that lingers pleasantly.
• Finish: The finish is long and warming, leaving a lasting impression of dark chocolate, ripe berries, and a hint of oak spice.

Serving Suggestions

To fully appreciate the intricate flavours of the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old, consider savouring it neat. This allows the whisky's full character to unfold on the palate, revealing each nuance of the maturation process.

• Neat: Pour a measure of Quinta Ruban into a chilled tumbler glass and allow it to sit for a few moments. The air will help release the whisky's aromas, enhancing your tasting experience.
• With a Drop of Water: Adding a small amount of chilled water can subtly open up the whisky's flavours. A few drops can help release the floral notes and soften the influence of the alcohol, allowing you to appreciate the full spectrum of taste.

Food Pairing

The Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old pairs exceptionally well with a variety of desserts. Its rich fruit and chocolate notes complement sweet treats like dark chocolate truffles, fruit tarts, and aged cheeses. Here are some specific pairing suggestions:

• Dark Chocolate: The whisky's chocolate notes create a harmonious pairing with dark chocolate. Choose a chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or above) to match the intensity of the whisky.
• Blue Cheese: The creamy texture and sharp flavour of blue cheese can stand up to the robust character of the Quinta Ruban. Consider cheeses like Stilton or Gorgonzola for a truly decadent pairing.
• Fruit Crumble: The warm spices and sweetness of a fruit crumble find a perfect partner in the Quinta Ruban. Opt for a crumble made with berries or plums to create a flavour echo with the whisky's notes.

The Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old: A Luxurious Whisky Experience

With its captivating smoothness, rich fruit flavours, and hints of spice and chocolate, the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old is a whisky that promises a luxurious sipping experience. Whether enjoyed neat, with a drop of water, or paired with a complementary dessert, this exceptional single malt is sure to delight the discerning whisky drinker. So, raise a glass and embark on a flavour journey with the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old.