Glenmorangie Astar 2017 Edition

Nose - (w/o water) Rich vanilla, toasted coconut, buttery vanilla, caramel, vanilla cream, sharp sweet toffee (w/ water) Pretty much the same, but a tiny addition of fresh cut anjou pears Taste - (w/o water) Rich vanilla, sweet spicy white pepper heat/warmth, buttery caramel & toffee syrup, light toasted/dried coconut flakes, faint bitterness but not off putting (w/ water) Less heat, appearance of pear & apples, vanilla cream caramels, toasted coconut flakes Finish - (w/o water) Lingering sharp sweet vanilla/toffee, white pepper heat, coconut flake sweet (w/ water) Very little heat, very clean, nice pleasant apple/pear, vanilla cream caramel, wisp of fresh coconut Score - 87/100 Final Thoughts - This newer 2017 release (at least to me) tastes significantly different from their original 2008/2009 version in that this seems less fruit forward & more vanilla/cream/caramel forward. The biggest takeaway from this release is that the typical fruity bitterness I get from the base Glenmorangie spirit is gone & that's what typically is off putting to me for most of the Glenmorangie releases. A tiny bit of water really enhances & opens this up and makes it a much more enjoyable experience. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Maybe Would I buy a bottle? - Maybe

Drammers Club Pour. very good. Nose: Vanilla, Honey, Orange, Passion Fruit, Mango, Pineapple, Caramel, Papaya, Banana, Pear, Coconut, Almonds, Walnuts, Juicy Fruit Gum, Raspberries, Lavender Palate: Vanilla, Honey, Caramel, Banana, Coconut, Passion Fruit, Pineapple, Mango, Apricot, Sultanas, Cherries, Lime Finish: Passion Fruit, Mango, Vanilla, Honey, Lavender, Caramel, Pears

Begins sharply with citrus fruit and honey. Has a rich body but minimal development. There is no peat presence, so it comes off a bit bland. It has a more playful vibe than most whiskies, with a nose that is faintly like lemon meringue pie. Definitely has a dessert vibe going on (though that's generally the case with Glenmorangie).

Strong with a 52% abv but light in flavor. Very fruity with a spicy finish.