Glenmorangie Astar

The vanilla bean comes on strong. It’s almost as creamy as vanilla ice cream, providing a decadently oily mouth-feel for such a relatively young spirit. Missouri oak does announce its presence, albeit politely, with cinnamon, allspice, and toffee. All of this blends harmoniously into a wood presence that “canes the tongue” like a saxophone reed–gently, and softly.

Other flavors include coconut creme, clover honey, orange zest, yellow raisins, and a bit of tropical mango. Last but not least, a Scottish shortbread hangs back, just beyond the radar, providing a buttery texture.