Scotch whisky distillery, Glenmorangie, has launched its latest limited-edition drop to Australian consumers – a new single malt whisky, A Tale of Tokyo.
Director of whisky creation, Dr Bill Lumsden, stated Japan’s capital was the source of great creative inspiration and sensory contrasts, countering bustling streets with quiet gardens and ancient customs with ultra-modernism.
“I’m lucky to have travelled widely over the years sharing Glenmorangie around the world whilst also gathering new inspiration for whisky creations, and Tokyo has always been one of my favourite places,” said Lumsden.
“I’m fascinated by the contradictions between its bustling streets and tranquil gardens, ancient and modern buildings, its many sensory experiences and its culture. My time there over the years made me wonder whether I could capture my experience of Tokyo, and these beautiful intricacies, in whisky form.
“I partly matured a proportion of Glenmorangie spirit in rare Japanese Mizunara oak casks, which I’ve been curious to experiment with for some time. The influence of this wood is incredibly complex and unusual; it required balance and softening with Glenmorangie matured in bourbon and sherry casks, and the result is a dram as full of delicious sensory contrasts as a trip to Tokyo.”
The limited edition expression is aged in rare Japanese Mizunara oak casks, creating a flavour profile of pepper, bitter cherries, coconut, orange zest, and incense. On the finish, classic Glenmorangie flavours of mandarin, almond and marzipan can be detected.
Glenmorangie collaborated with Japanese artist Yamaguchi Akira for the packaging, who created a playful perspective of the city’s rich layers of history and culture, juxtaposing famed landmarks and characteristics from both Tokyo and the Highland Distillery.
“It’s been a joy to collaborate with Glenmorangie to bring Glenmorangie A Tale of Tokyo to life through my art,” said Akira.
“The idea of my residing home conjures up so many different thoughts and feelings, and my work reflects Tokyo’s contrasts in many ways. Incorporating hints about Glenmorangie and its whisky really appealed to my sense of playfulness.”
Glenmorangie A Tale of Tokyo is available at First Choice and Vintage Cellars stockists across Australia, for RRP $195.
