Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 Year Old

Capture the Warmth of the Sun: A Deep Dive into Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 Year Old

As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in a tapestry of warm hues, Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 Year Old evokes a similar sense of comforting warmth and richness. This single malt Scotch whisky, crafted by the renowned Highland distillery, is a delightful journey for the senses.

A Legacy of Sunshine

The name Lasanta translates to "warmth and passion" in Gaelic, a fitting description for this expression.  Dr Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie's Director of Whisky Creation, drew inspiration from the fiery sunsets he witnessed during his travels.  His vision was to bottle this essence, and the Lasanta is the exquisite result.

The Art of Maturation

The Lasanta's magic lies in its unique maturation process. First, the spirit spends ten years slumbering in ex-bourbon casks. These American oak vessels impart a gentle sweetness and vanilla notes that form the foundation of the whisky's character.

For its final two years, the Lasanta is transferred to a luxurious combination of Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks.  Oloroso sherry, known for its dry and nutty character, seasons the whisky with hints of dried fruit, spice, and a touch of woodiness. Pedro Ximénez sherry, on the other hand, is a sweeter style, adding luscious notes of raisin, fig, and honey.  This exquisite interplay of casks imbues the Lasanta with its signature depth and complexity.

Aromatic Tapestry

Pour yourself a dram of Lasanta and take a moment to appreciate the captivating aroma.  The initial wave is one of fresh orchard fruits, like ripe pear and juicy apple.  Deeper sniffs reveal a delightful interplay of spice – think cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of ginger.  Hints of dark chocolate and roasted nuts peek through, hinting at the sherry cask influence.  Overall, the nose is inviting and well-balanced, whetting your appetite for the sip to come.

A Symphony of Flavours

The first sip of Lasanta is a revelation.  The texture is luxuriously smooth and creamy, coating the palate with a delightful warmth.  The initial sweetness is reminiscent of honey and vanilla, intertwined with hints of dried fruit – raisin, prune, and a touch of apricot.  Subtle notes of spice emerge, adding a touch of complexity.  As the whisky lingers on the tongue, a hint of dark chocolate and roasted nuts become apparent, a testament to the sherry cask influence.

The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a gentle warmth that lingers pleasantly.  The sweetness fades gracefully, allowing the spiced fruit and nutty notes to linger on the palate.

Unlocking the Potential: Serving Suggestions

To fully appreciate the depth and character of Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 Year Old, consider serving it neat.  This allows the whisky's complex flavours and aromas to shine through unadulterated.  Pour a generous measure into a chilled tumbler glass and allow it to breathe for a few minutes.  As the whisky warms slightly, the full range of aromas will unfurl.

For those who prefer a touch of dilution, a small splash of cool, filtered water can be added.  This will open up the whisky further, revealing even subtler notes.

Lasanta also pairs exceptionally well with certain desserts.  The whisky's sweetness and spice complement fruit-based desserts like pear tart or apple crumble beautifully.  It can also hold its own against richer desserts like dark chocolate cake or crème brûlée.

A Radiant Conclusion

Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 Year Old is a testament to the art of whisky making.  Its unique maturation process and masterful blending result in a single malt that is both comforting and captivating.  With its inviting sweetness, subtle spice, and lingering warmth, Lasanta is a whisky that captures the essence of a sun-drenched sunset in every sip.  So, raise a glass, savour the warmth, and let Lasanta transport you to a place of pure enjoyment.

Looking to Explore Further?

At The General Wine, we offer a curated selection of single malt Scotch whiskies, including a variety of expressions from Glenmorangie.  Visit our website or our store to discover the perfect dram for your next celebratory occasion or simply to unwind after a long day.  Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to assist you in finding the perfect whisky to suit your taste.