As part of a new yearly lineup, Lowland distillery Lochlea has launched its first cask-strength single malt.
Lochlea Cask Strength Batch 1 by Lochlea Distillery, which is based in Ayrshire, is bottled directly from the barrel at an impressive 60.1% ABV.
The spirit was matured in first-fill ex-Bourbon and oloroso Sherry barrels, which are reputed to perform especially well at higher proofs and "amplify" the fruit, nut, and cereal flavours of Lochlea's classic style.
The finished whisky has a strong fruit punch flavour that transitions into a mellow cigar note and fragrant coffee beans. The typical Lochlea fruit, Brazil nuts, and an orange syrup finish with old wood shavings follow.
“Here at Lochlea we are passionate about the quality and traceability of our whiskies and this is reflected in every stage of our whisky-making process. From our own barley fields surrounding the distillery and our traditional wooden washbacks, to our sourcing of the finest casks available and racked warehouse storage, there are absolutely no compromises on our quality. Our new Cask Strength whisky enables this quality to shine through in every dram, showing an amplified version of our signature Lochlea style for those whisky lovers looking for an extra special something: a bold, yet elegant spirit made with a contemporary approach alongside respected traditions.” ~ John Campbell, Master Blender
Cask Strength Batch 1 will be sold at a few specialty whisky shops starting on May 31. The cost should be right around £65 ($80).
Using its own barley, the family-owned distillery has also produced limited-edition seasonal whiskies.
The 'first crop' of seasonal releases consisted of the Sowing, Harvest, Fallow, and Ploughing Editions.
Every season starting in 2023, additional ‘crop’ releases of the limited edition whiskies will be issued, each showcasing the development of Lochlea's single malts.
About Lochlea Distillery
Lochlea is a renowned distillery nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Scotland. With a rich heritage rooted in whisky-making traditions, Lochlea has established itself as a prominent player in the world of fine spirits. The distillery takes pride in crafting exceptional whiskies that showcase the unique essence of their Scottish surroundings.
At Lochlea, the pursuit of perfection is evident in every aspect of their whisky production. From carefully selecting the finest grains and water sources to employing time-honoured distillation techniques, Lochlea's dedication to quality is unwavering. The distillery's commitment to excellence extends to the maturation process, where their whiskies are aged in oak casks, allowing them to develop complexity and depth of flavour.
Lochlea is known for its innovation and creativity, consistently pushing boundaries and introducing exciting expressions to the whisky world. Whether it's their signature releases or limited edition offerings, each Lochlea whisky is crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a passion for delivering an exceptional drinking experience.
Beyond the liquid itself, Lochlea embraces its role as a custodian of Scotland's whisky heritage. The distillery welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in the art of whisky-making through engaging tours and tastings. Visitors can explore the distillery's history, witness the craftsmanship firsthand, and gain a deeper appreciation for the time-honoured traditions that make Lochlea whiskies truly special.
Lochlea's commitment to quality, innovation, and preserving whisky traditions has earned them a dedicated following of whisky enthusiasts worldwide. With each sip of a Lochlea whisky, one can embark on a sensory journey, discovering the beauty and complexity that lies within each finely crafted expression.
