The Glenmorangie Companta was the 2014 Private Edition release, following on from Ealanta. After an initial maturation in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels, the Companta was matured in 60% Burgundy wine casks from Clos de Tart and 40% Rhône Valley casks that previously held Rasteau, sourced by Glenmorangie's Director of Distilling, Dr. Bill Lumsden. The result is an exceedingly well-made cherry red, non chill-filtered single malt. Nose Heady, fruity nose with notes of chocolate and spice. Then comes an umami-like delivery of truffles and the forest floor. Bill specifically wanted this character to shine through in the whisky, and it does, beautifully. The typical red berry notes arrive a little later, developing slowly with hints of toasted almond. Palate Huge palate, far “bigger” than one would expect from the abv. There is a massive spice note, then something akin to chewing on pipe tobacco – sweet and savoury all at once. Black pepper comes through in a big way. Hints of sherbet, ginger, stewed prunes and then molasses. It’s quite chocolatey too, and tremendously complex. Finish Sweet, very long finish with hints of clove oil on the tail. A hint of muscovado sugar develops, a touch of chestnut mushroom too. It remains oily and mouth-coating for minutes. Overall Astonishing - one of finest red wine finished whiskies we've ever come across (and we're not always fans of these). Highly recommended.