Lochlea Harvest Edition (First Crop)
The Lochlea distillery plans four special bottlings a year. The Harvest Edition follows the Lochlea Sowing Edition and is intended to embody a fruity, autumnal profile.A trio of casks, namely port, first-fill Oloroso sherry and first-fill bourbon lend the whisky its golden colour. We find the package design in the style of the distillery's other releases, as well as the bottle design, outstanding.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The Harvest Edition opens with apple juice. Damn apple juice. Aromas of fresh pear, maple syrup, malty sweetness and some grain and hay in the background unfold. Maybe a little nutty and kind of like a horse stable. Candy strawberries and red wine notes are also in the mix.
Palate
Also: apple juice. This is followed by fresh, sugared strawberries on milk chocolate. Underneath, a few dry grasses, nutty notes and a pile of a mixture of butter biscuits and oat biscuits.
Finish
The finish is very strong vinous and distinctly oaky spicy.
Thoughts
Marcel 80/100
A whisky that simply delights with its fruity apple charm and sweet strawberry-chocolate notes. Sure, it’s not perfectly balanced yet, but that’s exactly what makes it so likeable and genuine – an autumnal treat for relaxed evenings.
Sascha 80/100
The Lochlea Harvest Edition displays a solid structure with pronounced fruity sweetness and a complex cask combination that nicely highlights the Lowlands character. Although the aromatic profile isn’t fully refined yet, the harmonious overall concept convinces in this young three-years whisky.
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.
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69/100Frequently Asked Questions
How do the types of casks used influence the taste of the Lochlea Harvest Edition?
The combination of port wine, first-fill Oloroso sherry, and first-fill bourbon casks gives the whisky a complex aroma profile with fruity notes, malty sweetness, and a pronounced oak character on the finish.
What distinguishes the Lochlea Harvest Edition from the Sowing Edition?
The Harvest Edition is characterized by a fruity, autumnal flavor profile, whereas the Sowing Edition emphasizes different seasonal aromas. Both are part of the distillery’s annual special releases, each with its own distinct character.
How old is the Lochlea Harvest Edition and what is its alcohol content?
The Lochlea Harvest Edition is 3 years old and has an alcohol content of 46% ABV.