Royal Lochnagar 12 Year Old
Royal Whisky? The story told is that shortly after the opening of the distillery, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert were invited by the owner at the time. The British royal family had just bought nearby Balmoral Castle (1848). Later, the distillery became a purveyor to the court and was allowed to bear the suffix Royal, which was even confirmed again in 2021 by a Royal Warrant of Appointment.
Nose
We perceive sweet brown sugar, wood chips and citrus fruits. Light smoke lies unobtrusively, but nevertheless well recognisable in the background. A very exciting note of liquorice resonates.
Taste
The Scotch opens sweet, then dry and with minimal smoke. Licorice notes can also be perceived here. All in all, the composition reminds us of suede care products. The flavours are very defined, slightly oily and wonderfully rounded.
Finish
The finish flatters the palate, but is still strong and brings along minimal bitterness.
Thoughts
An easygoing single malt whisky from the Highlands. Very soft and round, without rough edges. Malicious tongues could call it characterless, but that would not be justified. The Scotch has a defined, albeit not complex profile, which makes it accessible. Should the Royal Family have served this whisky or a previous bottling with a similar character, it was certainly possible to pick up non-whisky drinkers as well.
Support us and purchase on Amazon*Rating: 70/100 - Very Good (Marcel: 69 | Sascha: 71)
Value for Money: 4/5 - Good
Preview Image Source: The Whisky Exchange