Scotland, Northern Highlands. Distillery operational. Owners: LVMH, Diageo

Selling all of its shares (52% of the Glenmorangie PLC group) to the leading international luxury goods brand LVMH in 2004, the Macdonald family brought to an end over 80 years of work to develop the distillery and its brand.Like the distilleries that managed to maintain their independence throughout the 20th century, Glenmorangie was a true pioneer for many. Whether for the release of its malt in the 1920s, for producing bottlings upon request across the world, for doubling its production capacity in the middle of the crisis (1980) or for launching a research programme looking into oak and its properties (Wood Finishes), Glenmorangie has always benefited from its owners long-term vision and sharp business acumen. In October 2004, The Glenmorangie swapped its tweed jacket and corduroy trousers for a bespoke three-piece suit. Decked out in its new attire, it entered the world of private collections, revealing an authentic, haute couture malt.

Glenmorangie Tùsail was launched in 2015. It is the sixth edition of the Private Edition range, made with Maris Otter barley, a variety created in 1965 that produces an excellent malt, which was floor malted by hand for this edition. Despite falling out of fashion in favour of varieties with a higher yield, Maris Otter continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans of old whiskies. The renewed interest in traditional methods has seen the return of older barley varieties—albeit on the margins of the industry.