Glen Moray experiments with maple syrup
Scotch whisky brand Glen Moray has released two limited edition expressions finished in Canadian maple syrup casks.
Debuting at the Spirit of Speyside festival, the two releases are the first to be finished in maple syrup in the brand’s 125-year history. The finishing adds to the brand’s reputation for investigating the impact of wood on flavour, with its motto of ‘Cask Explorer Since 1897’.
However, regulations from the Scotch Whisky Association mean the liquids cannot be labelled as Scotch whisky, as maple syrup casks are not permitted for maturation. As such, they are both labelled as spirit drinks.
There is a peated and a non-peated version, which are both said to combine Glen Moray’s ‘distinguished smooth and fruity personality with indulgent, syrup-rich depth’. The liquid was originally matured in American oak before being finished in barrels which once held Canadian maple syrup.
The unpeated version sits at 59% ABV. It is described as ‘smooth and dessert-like, with notes of sticky toffee, brown sugar and vanilla fudge’.
Meanwhile, the peated version, which is bottled at 59.1% ABV, adds ‘gentle smoke’ to the sweet notes, ‘creating a bold and balanced profile’.
Just over 200 bottles of each expression are available during the festival and from the brand’s base in Elgin. Both are priced at £90 (US$120).
Iain Allan, global brand ambassador, said: “We’re always exploring new cask finishes to push the boundaries of flavour. These limited edition maple syrup casks are a bold example – the maple influence is immediate and unmistakable: rich, syrupy sweetness that adds depth and indulgence, while still allowing the Glen Moray character to shine through.
“The unpeated spirit brings out those classic dessert-like notes – fudge, toasted nuts, soft spice – while the peated version is a different experience altogether. The smoke and syrup play off each other nicely, creating a bold and layered dram that’s both sweet and savoury.
“We love surprising people at Spirit of Speyside – these playful, flavour-packed bottlings show our curiosity as distillers and prove that even after 125 years, we’re still finding new ways to bring flavour to life.”
Festival attendees can sample these liquids and more during the brand’s events, which include ‘Breakfast Tours’, ‘Boozy Brunch Tastings’, ‘Cask Origin Stories’ and more.
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