Glenmorangie Dr. Bill Lumsden x Azuma Makoto 23 Year Old is an extraordinarily rare limited edition Highland single malt Scotch whisky born from a creative collaboration between Dr. Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie's Director of Whisky Creation, and celebrated Japanese botanical artist Azuma Makoto. Released in 2024, this expression embodies the Japanese concept of shinra bansho — the wonder of nature encompassing the ground, the sky, and everything in between — which inspired both the whisky's creation and its stunning packaging.

The liquid is a masterful marriage of two components: a classic long-aged Glenmorangie matured in ex-bourbon casks, known for its floral aromas of lemon balsam and orchids, and Glenmorangie's very first whisky finished in Chardonnay casks from the prestigious Meursault appellation in Burgundy, France. Together they create a rich, mellow, and intriguingly deep dram layering the distillery's signature floral character with earthy, woodland depth.

On the nose it presents cantaloupe melon, soft honey, honeycomb, milk chocolate, lemon zest, orange oil, and hints of creamy coconut and pineapple. The palate is soft and creamy with cocoa powder, bitter orange, and a slow build of gentle spicy oak that evolves toward burnt brown sugar and crème brûlée. The finish echoes with lush creaminess and an elegant, warming oak presence.

Inspired by the whisky's layered character, Azuma Makoto created a botanical sculpture titled Shinra Bansho — woven from orchids, roses, wild flowers, tree bark, roots, and moss gathered from Scotland and around the world — which is showcased on the bottle's packaging. The expression received a Double Gold award at the International Spirits Challenge 2024 and is bottled at 46% ABV (92 proof). Glenmorangie Distillery was founded in 1843 in Ross-shire in the Scottish Highlands and is today owned by LVMH.