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Glenmorangie “Companta”

Glenmorangie “Companta”

Sometimes the Scotch Gods smile upon you. After first encountering this whisky at a Merlin’s Rest tasting in 2014, it quickly sold out in the state and we didn’t think we’d ever encounter it again. Therefore, it was quite a pleasant surprise when we stumbled upon it while driving to Madison, Wisconsin to retrieve another hard-to-find dram, the Glen Breton Rare 10 year. When presented with such an opportunity, the last thing you do is not seize upon it. Glenmorangie’s Private Edition series are yearly releases, with the Companta spirit matured in 60% Burgundy wine casks from Clos de Tart and 40% Rasteau casks from the Côtes du Rhône region of France. As with others in this range, like the 2013 Elanta, the Companta has also won multiple whisky awards.

Balvenie 12 Year Doublewood

Balvenie 12 Year Doublewood

The Balvenie distillery is located in Dufftown near the old Balvenie Castle. In operation since 1886 by William Grant and has continued in family ownership since then. Beyond having a very wide range of offerings (14 standard, plus more in specialized markets), Balvenie currently has one of the busiest and slickest websites we’ve found yet. In other words, there is a lot going on at this place. Little wonder, too, as the distillery has collected awards and medals for many of its offerings since the turn of the millennium. The Doublewood has been an early club favorite and is often used when we’re introducing people to whisky.

Lagavulin 16 Year

Lagavulin 16 Year

The Lagavulin 16 is a winner. We’re not saying that just from our own experience. Rather, this standard edition of the Lagavulin distillery has consistently been ranked highly in whisky competitions, winning gold awards and earning other top marks in competitions and ratings around the world over the past fifteen years. To be sure, this is not a scotch meant for those who prefer gentler tastes and refrained flavors. Having their workhorse be aged 16 years means this distillery is willing to be patient so they can craft something worth the wait. Not a bad work ethic to have in regards to scotch. All right, enough teasing. Let’s dive in.