Glenmorangie Spìos Private Edition No. 9 Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Glenmorangie Spìos Private Edition No. 9 Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the ninth Private Edition, and the first Glenmorangie fully matured in ex-American rye whiskey casks. Those barrels had held high-rye whiskey for about six years; Dr Bill Lumsden then filled them with new make for seven to nine years so clove, pepper, and baking spice would actually take. Gaelic for “spice,” bottled non-chill filtered at 92 proof in Tain. It earns a place in a spirit-forward cocktail.

A fresh herbal nose of cherry, clove, green grass, and perfumed oak leads. The palate is full and spicy — toffee, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet vanilla — then white pepper and a dry, warming finish with Brazil nut and a citrus edge. Rye’s grip sits on Glenmorangie’s fruit, spicy and creamy in the same sip.