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 10 Year Old is a house classic whose origins date back to the 1950s. The bottle’’s presentation has remained more or less the same for half a century. The back label of this 1990s version shows the Head Cooper, who was in charge of the cooperage. Other versions exist from the same era, each honouring different professions at the distillery such as the Still Man. Glenmorangie 10 Year Old eventually became The Original in 2007 when the range was updated.