Lochlea Fallow Edition (First Crop)
The Lochlea distillery plans four special bottlings a year. The Fallow Edition follows the Harvest Edition and is intended to embody an autumnal-winter profile.The single malt Scotch whisky was matured 100% exclusively in Oloroso sherry butts. There are a number of whiskies on the market that have also undergone such ageing - will the Lochlea distillery manage to stand out once again?
Tasting Notes
Nose
Crystal clear: Ripe dark fruits, leather, dark chocolate. We expected this and got it. Pleasantly, raspberries, strawberries and cinnamon still resonate. Somewhere, after some time in the glass, we find a few wine aromas and some burnt wood. Beautifully defined profile with exciting secondary aromas.
Palate
Fresh and at the same time heavy-oily, the Fallow Edition lays in the mouth. As in the nose, we have a red berry mix, some tannins and oak spice. Not as dry as we would have expected, the Lowland single malt qualifies as an excellent sherry bomb.
Finish
In the warming, medium-long finish, we find the dark chocolate from the nose again.
Thoughts
Marcel 79/100
For a young Lowland whisky, the Fallow Edition is a real delight – the blend of dark chocolate and berries almost evokes a winter mulled wine with a kick. Sure, it’s not the most complex sherry bomb, but the fresh fruitiness and smooth oiliness make for endless drinking pleasure. If you’re into autumnal flavors, this one’s right up your alley.
Sascha 81/100
The Lochlea Fallow Edition presents a balanced aromatic interplay of Oloroso sherry, dark fruits, and oak spice, which is remarkably well-structured for a three-years single malt. Despite its youth, the profile is well-defined and harmonious, with a finish that remains pleasantly warming. A convincing example of the quality of young Lowland sherry casks, it once again raises the bar for the distillery.
Value for Money: Fair
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Lochlea. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does maturation in 100% Oloroso sherry casks influence the taste of the Lochlea Fallow Edition?
Exclusive aging in Oloroso sherry casks imparts the whisky with intense aromas of ripe dark fruits, dark chocolate, and leather. This cask choice creates a full-bodied, sweet-spicy profile featuring notes of red berries, cinnamon, and a pleasant oak spice.
What sets the Lochlea Fallow Edition apart from other Lowland single malts?
The Lochlea Fallow Edition stands out through its combination of a fresh, heavy-oily texture and intense sherry cask maturation. Despite its young age of three years, it offers a complex flavor profile with clearly defined secondary notes like raspberries, wine, and lightly charred wood, distinguishing it from many other Lowland whiskies.
Which season and drinking occasion suit the Lochlea Fallow Edition best?
With its autumnal-winter character and warming, medium-length finish, the Lochlea Fallow Edition is especially well-suited for cooler months. It’s ideal for relaxed enjoyment by the fireside or as a companion to hearty autumnal dishes.