Lochlea Distillery, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Ayrshire, Scotland, has proudly announced the commencement of its third and final 'crop' in the illustrious Seasonal whisky series. This trilogy, conceived in 2022, epitomizes Lochlea's deep-rooted ties to the surrounding terrain and its steadfast commitment to the farm-to-bottle ethos that characterizes its production philosophy.
The Seasonal series, a symphony of four-part releases, serves as an ode to the symbiotic relationship between Lochlea and the bountiful Ayrshire landscape. Each expression, meticulously crafted, endeavors to encapsulate the essence of the agricultural journey that culminates in the creation of fine whisky.
Embarking on this culminating journey is the heralded Sowing Edition, set to grace shelves by the end of April 2024. This latest iteration, lovingly nurtured in ex-bourbon barrels, unveils a symphony of floral and fruity notes, a testament to the artistry of the distillery's craft.
John Campbell, the visionary Production Director at Lochlea, sheds light on the nuanced interplay of seasons and flavor profiles. He articulates how the timing of distillation leaves an indelible mark on the spirit, with the third Sowing Edition, distilled during colder months, boasting a crisp, invigorating burst of fresh fruit flavors. This stands in stark contrast to its predecessor, where warmer distillation months yielded a tapestry of stewed fruit complexities.
As the Seasonal releases evolve, so does the age of the whiskies within, with the final Sowing Edition mirroring the maturity of Lochlea's esteemed 5 Years Old single malt, a testament to the distillery's unwavering commitment to quality.
Following the unveiling of the Sowing Edition, aficionados can anticipate three additional editions in the third crop—Harvest, Fallow, and Ploughing—each meticulously curated to coincide with pivotal milestones in the farming calendar.
John Campbell expresses his enthusiasm for the culmination of the Seasonal trilogy, highlighting the opportunity it affords whisky enthusiasts to witness the evolution of Lochlea's distinct flavor profile across the various crops. He lauds the Seasonal editions as a platform to showcase the distillery's prowess in leveraging diverse cask types while paying homage to the agricultural narrative that underpins their craft.
The eagerly anticipated Lochlea Sowing Edition Third Crop, boasting an ABV of 46% and non-chill filtration, will grace specialist retailers from April 25th, inviting discerning palates to partake in a sensory journey unlike any other, with a suggested retail price of £51.50.
Established in 2017 on the hallowed grounds of a former livestock farm, Lochlea Distillery stands as a beacon of innovation and tradition. Their core expression, Our Barley, a harmonious blend matured in a medley of bourbon, oloroso, and STR casks, remains a testament to their unwavering dedication to excellence, available year-round for enthusiasts to savor.
As Lochlea embarks on the final leg of its Seasonal trilogy, it does so not merely as a distillery, but as custodians of a rich legacy, weaving together the threads of agriculture and craftsmanship to create an unparalleled whisky experience.
About Lochlea Distillery
Lochlea Distillery is a Scotch whisky distillery located in the Ayrshire region of Scotland. Founded in 2019, Lochlea is a relatively new player in the whisky industry, but it carries a rich history and heritage deeply rooted in its surroundings. The distillery takes its name from the Lochlea farm, situated near the town of Tarbolton, where Scottish poet Robert Burns spent part of his early life. This connection to Burns adds a cultural and historical significance to the distillery's identity.
At Lochlea Distillery, a commitment to quality craftsmanship and traditional whisky-making techniques is paramount. The distillery's location in the heart of Ayrshire provides access to pristine water sources and locally grown barley, essential ingredients for producing high-quality Scotch whisky. Lochlea embraces traditional methods of whisky production, including copper pot stills and oak casks for maturation, while also incorporating modern innovations to ensure consistency and excellence in every batch.
While Lochlea Distillery is relatively new, its founders are dedicated to upholding the values and traditions of Scotch whisky production while also innovating and pushing boundaries in the industry. The distillery's debut whisky releases are eagerly anticipated by whisky enthusiasts, who are eager to taste the fruits of Lochlea's labor and experience the unique flavors and characteristics of Ayrshire whisky.
As Lochlea Distillery continues to grow and develop its whisky portfolio, it aims to become a respected and cherished part of Scotland's whisky landscape, contributing to the legacy of fine Scotch whisky for generations to come. With its dedication to quality, heritage, and innovation, Lochlea Distillery represents a promising addition to the world of Scotch whisky and a welcome addition to Ayrshire's rich cultural heritage.
