Glenmorangie launches 'rare' grain whisky Tùsail

By Erin Smith

Published: 21 January, 2015

Glenmorangie has launched Tùsail whisky made from the rare and recently resurrected Maris Otter barley grain.

Glenmorangie Tùsail Glenmorangie TùsailThe newest addition to the Private Edition Collection is Glenmorangie Tùsail single malt whisky.

Maris Otter barley was once used as a staple ingredient for craft-brewing in England a half century ago. It fell out favour when the barley was cross-pollinated too many times, but two British seed merchants made a pact to prevent the Maris Otter barley from being wiped out.

The grain came to the attention of Dr. Bill Lumsden the director of distilling and whisky creation for Glenmorangie and a self-styled Willy Wonka of Whisky.

Dr Bill Lumsden Dr Bill Lumsden

"When we heard the story of those determined to preserve such a flavoursome grain, their ethos - and the barley itself - seemed the perfect match for a Glenmorangie single malt. I knew its deep flavour profile would provide an intriguing contrast to Glenmorangie's more delicate house style, creating a whisky to enchant connoisseurs," said Lumsden.

The barley, which was once used in many of the finest English casked ales, seemed like a great compliment to Glenmorangie whisky according to Lumsden.

He said: "The result pays homage to the Maris Otter variety, with rich, rustic flavours of nut toffee, sweet barley malt, ginger, cinnamon, molasses, and dates, complementing the more familiar Glenmorangie notes of peaches, oranges and smoked pears."

Glenmorangie Tùsail is part of the Private Edition Collection of Glenmorangie whiskies. The first Private Edition collection was launched in 2010 and each year since Glenmorangie has released a rare single malt whisky focused on producing something unique for collectors and connoisseurs.

Glenmorangie Tùsail will be available for £75.99 at Glenmorangie.com, independent specialist retailers and department stores.

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