Glenmorangie Astar 2008 Release

Glenmorangie Astar – Original 2008 Release, 700ml, 57.1% ABV

A distinctive and highly regarded Highland single malt Scotch whisky, Glenmorangie Astar was originally introduced in 2008 as a bold expression of the distillery's dedication to exceptional oak maturation.

The name Astar, meaning "journey" in Gaelic, reflects the remarkable journey of the specially selected American white oak used to mature this whisky.

Glenmorangie sourced slow-growing oak from the Ozark Mountains of Missouri, USA, carefully selecting wood for its desirable maturation characteristics. The oak was air-seasoned before being crafted into barrels and used to mature American bourbon, after which the casks were transported to Scotland for filling with Glenmorangie's delicate Highland spirit.

This carefully controlled wood selection and maturation process created a whisky with an exceptionally rich interaction between spirit and oak, delivering remarkable depth while preserving Glenmorangie's signature elegance.

Bottled at a powerful 57.1% ABV (100 British proof), the original Astar showcases an intensely flavoured interpretation of the distillery's classic house style.

The nose reveals generous aromas of creamy vanilla, honey, fresh citrus, ripe peach and toasted coconut, complemented by delicate floral notes and sweet oak.

On the palate, layers of vanilla custard, butterscotch, lemon zest, tropical fruit and warming spice unfold with a rich, creamy texture.

The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering vanilla sweetness, toasted oak, citrus and gentle spice.

Unlike Glenmorangie's standard expressions, Astar was created to demonstrate the influence of carefully selected oak on whisky maturation, making it an important release in the distillery's modern history.

The original 2008 edition was later discontinued and subsequently revived in a different form, making this 57.1% bottling particularly appealing to collectors and enthusiasts seeking the first generation of Astar.

Glenmorangie Astar Original 2008 Release is an outstanding example of Highland single malt craftsmanship, combining exceptional wood management, powerful natural strength and the elegant fruit-forward character for which Glenmorangie is renowned.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Bright golden amber.

Nose: Rich vanilla, buttery toffee, honey and fresh lemon zest, complemented by cinnamon, mint and subtle toasted oak.

Palate: Powerful and creamy, with crème brûlée, ripe pineapple, poached pear, apricot and warming nutmeg. Sweet vanilla and toasted oak balance the lively spice.

Finish: Long, warming and spicy, with lingering honey, roasted almonds, sweet oak and delicate citrus.