Loch Lomond 18 Years
The distillery Loch Lomond, named after the famous lake it resides by, is nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Renowned for its versatility, it produces a wide range of whiskies: from smoky single malts distilled in pot stills, grain whiskies produced on Coffey stills, to even the "Glen's Vodka". Today, we sample the Loch Lomond 18 Year Single Malt, one of their flagship releases.
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, this single malt presents an intriguing combination of roasted aromas and exotic fruitiness. We detect caramel and toasted pine nuts, accompanied by hints of grapefruit and a grainy banana bread. The fruity sweetness is enveloped in a light but cool smoke, reminiscent of egg carton (which may sound negative, but is not meant as such).
Palate
On the palate, Loch Lomond 18 begins with a fruity sweetness. The mouthfeel is soft and oily, spreading astringently and presenting a full-bodied berry note with hints of plums and oranges. Additionally, there are exotic citrus-like flavors. After a short while, the aroma shifts to herbal mint notes and surprisingly clear phenolic almost rubber-like smoke.
Finish
The finish is medium-length and warming, leaving an enduring impression of spicy oak and a hint of white pepper, without being sharp. Tobacco and tea leaves round off the experience.
Thoughts
Marcel 81/100
Loch Lomond 18 is a pleasant companion for relaxed evenings, offering fun with its fruity and spicy character. Despite the harmonious aromas, I miss a little spark of surprise that would elevate this malt to a true highlight. It's a pity that E150 slightly clouds the natural character – that really wasn’t necessary.
Sascha 83/100
The Loch Lomond 18 impresses with a solid balance of fruity and smoky notes that create a complex structure. The medium-length maturation reveals itself elegantly, although the caramel color loses some authenticity due to the use of caramel coloring. Overall, a well-crafted single malt with minor compromises in purity.
Value for Money: Good
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85/100Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Loch Lomond 18 Years special compared to other Highland whiskies?
The Loch Lomond 18 Years stands out through its combination of smoky pot still notes and fruity sweetness. Its versatility comes from the use of different stills, giving it a unique profile with roasted aromas, exotic fruits, and a hint of phenolic smoke.
How does the 18-year age influence the taste of this whisky?
The 18 years of maturation provide a balanced interplay of soft, oily textures and complex flavors like caramel, oak, and spices. The extended aging smooths out sharp edges and brings forward spicy and fruity notes along with a warming finish.
What is the recommended drinking temperature for Loch Lomond 18 Years to best reveal its aromas?
Loch Lomond 18 Years should ideally be tasted at room temperature (around 18-20 °C). At this temperature, the complex aromas of roasted pine nuts, exotic fruits, and delicate smoke unfold best. A few drops of water can also help to release hidden nuances.