Origin: Lowlands (Scotland)
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Gradation: 60%ABV
Ageing casks: Ex-Sherry PX, Oloroso and STR
Chillfiltered: No
Added colouring: No
Owner: Lochlea Distilling Co.
Average price: € 80.00
Official website: www.lochleadistillery.com
Vote: 85/100
Released in June 2024, the second edition of Lochlea’s cask strength whisky is markedly different from the previous year’s, removing the ex-bourbon casks and stepping firmly on the pedal of vinous influences, between sherry (a minority in the first edition) and ex-STR wine (shaved, toasted and re-charred).
I really appreciate the decision to produce something distinctly different instead of reintroducing the same group of casks, and I appreciate even more the always great transparency in production: distillates largely aged for at least five years, with the maturation divided 60% in ex Pedro Ximènez casks, 28% ex oloroso and 12% STR barriques.
Tasting Notes
Sherry wins hands down on the nose, with a symphony of red fruits (blueberries, currants, raspberries, wild strawberries, gooseberries), wine vinegar (red, of course), cinnamon and white pepper. But as in the sound from the deep space of Contact, underneath the main tones there is something else that quickly emerges from the glass: milk chocolate, marzipan, orange marmalade, pear, boiled chestnut. Over time it acquires a vegetal and at times balsamic part, faint but well present, with a hint of toasted wood. Inviting.
The palate expresses a full-bodied lightness, with the oiliness of whisky accompanying full but not overpowering notes. Always red fruits turning to darker tones of black cherry, blackberry and blueberry jam with dried figs, blood orange, marzipan, gingerbread and the roughness of leather. More definite spices with cinnamon, black pepper and nutmeg, while a vein of balsamic and vegetal freshness sneaks in among the flavours.
The finish is quite long, where the notes of red fruits, nuts, light spices and toasted wood are crossed by a balsamic and vegetal breath.
If the first batch had left me a little cold, this sequel has definitely convinced me, managing to overcome the overbearingness of the casks with a fresh wave of youth that elsewhere would have been a flaw but here becomes a plus. A confirmation of the solidity of Lochlea’s distillate.