Harrison Ford toasts to new Glenmorangie 25YO Altus
Scottish whisky distillery Glenmorangie has unveiled a new 25-year-old single malt called The Altus, praised by Indiana Jones actor Harrison Ford.
The new permanent release is said to elevate the distillery’s signature spirit character to new heights of elegance.
Created by The Glenmorangie Company’s director of whisky creation and master distiller, Dr Bill Lumsden, the expression is a nod to Glenmorangie’s Madeira-finished whisky from 1995.
Glenmorangie The Altus is a marriage of Bourbon cask aged whiskies that have been finished in Malmsey Madeira wine casks.
Lumsden said: “The Altus’s 25-year journey is a true celebration of Glenmorangie’s acclaimed house style – presenting it at a new pinnacle of flavour. Once our delicate spirit has been distilled in our iconic stills, this whisky has absorbed the creamy, fruity influence of our designer Bourbon casks over the decades, before being combined with a sprinkling of Madeira cask finished Glenmorangie for more depth and fruitiness.
“The Altus elevates our distillery’s signature notes of mandarin, peach and pear to new heights, combined with sweet butter candy tones.”
Offered at 43% ABV, Glenmorangie The Altus 25 year old completes a trio of flagship expressions in the distillery’s core range, which includes the Original 12-year-old and Infinita 18-year-old.
The new expression will initially be available at specialist retailers and at the distillery visitor centre in Tain, with a recommended retail price of £550 (US$740).
Once upon a time in Scotland
Ford honours the heritage and craftsmanship behind The Altus in episode 10 of Glenmorangie’s campaign, Once Upon a Time in Scotland.
In the episode, titled ‘Teamwork’, Ford is presented with a mystery dram by Emily Ross, Glenmorangie senior tour guide, which is described as “something very special” by distillery manager Ed Thom.
Impressed by The Altus’s flavour, Ford nods in approval and addresses the group of distillery workers, saying: “You guys do good work. Here’s to your creation. To the good people of Glenmorang-y. Cheers.” His pronunciation is quickly corrected by distillery worker Alan Duff Junior: “It’s Glenmorangie.”
Thom commented on the new release: “We were very excited to share The Altus with Harrison. This whisky is a perfect example of how bringing together the work of our distillers, blenders and warehouse teams can create something truly special. Harrison’s reaction to the whisky in the film is very genuine.
“After filming stopped, he shared his appreciation and praise for the craftsmanship of the team who created it. He was very relaxed during breaks. He even told us a few jokes, which we promised to keep a secret if he didn’t tell anyone about The Altus before it was released.”
Ross reflected on her experience during the filming of the campaign: “The whole experience was unreal. I’ve always been a Harrison Ford fan, so I was excited to meet him. He was incredibly down-to-earth, humble, and genuine. It was a day I’ll never forget; a real moment in Glenmorangie’s history.”
Lumsden added: “We were delighted that Harrison Ford became one of the first to taste the whisky in Once Upon A Time in Scotland – and are very glad it met with his approval.”
To watch episode 10, click below.
Related news
Chivas Brothers offers £13,000 whisky tour
