Scotland’s Glenmorangie Whisky Launches Spicy Spios at Holt’s Cigar in Philadelphia

Story, photos by Meg Arbo (unless otherwise noted)

Earlier this year, Glenmorangie proudly launched Spios, the ninth offering in their Private Edition series. The event was given the due it deserved and celebrated in fine style at Holt’s Cigar in Philadelphia. But this occasion was so noteworthy that other cities got in on the party, too, via closed circuit TV making this launch truly international. Scotch aficionados from Vancouver, Calgary, San Francisco and Miami all awaited the tasting eagerly. The tasting itself was lead, virtually, by Dr. Bill Lumsden and Brendan McCarron all the way from Scotland. Is it bad that I was thrilled that the Philadelphia party seemed the most hopping and boisterous by far? Of course it was. In Philly, we love a good party! Especially a party with high quality spirits such as these! I was almost tempted to start singing Jason Kelce’s now legendary song…

We sampled three offerings, which included The Original, a fine 10 year old Scotch, The Nectar D’Or, a 12 year Scotch, and “Spios”, which is Scots Gaelic for “spice” (pronounced Spee-os). This is a fitting name for this spirit, as it is aged in American ex-rye whiskey casks, imparting a warm, spicy flavor. Hints of toffee mingled with melon and it had a bold, lingering finish. It was delightful.

In addition to a buffet, which was generous enough to constitute a meal, we were treated to two Glenmorangie cocktails, thoughtfully crafted by the bartenders on staff. One was the Original Tonic which featured Glenmorangie Original, elder flower cordial, tonic and a twist of lime. The other was the Golden Giraffe which consisted of Glenmorangie Nectar D’Or, grapefruit soda, and a lime wedge. Both were well composed and refreshing but I preferred the Golden Giraffe. The lively crowd enjoyed the buffet, and beverages and, of course, cigars. The crowd was a fun assortment of business professionals from all sectors, a handful of writers, and even an artist who went by the fitting moniker Krissy Whiski. She sold a couple of her rock and spirits inspired surreal prints during the festivities.

Because I was at the premiere cigar store in the area, I took the opportunity to avail myself of Holt’s fine selection to treat a couple of my cigar aficionado friends. Thanks to Glenmorangie, I am now the proud owner of whiskey rocks. They really do keep your cocktail from getting diluted. I need to invest in another set of those. Welcome to the Glenmorangie family, Spios! You were warmly received and will, no doubt, be enjoyed by Scotch enthusiasts for years to come.