Lochlea – First Release Single Malt 2022 (46%)

Lochlea First Release is the first single malt from the Lochlea Distilling Co in the Scottish Lowlands, where distilling began in 2018. It is bottled at 46% without chill-filtration. The whisky was matured in a combination of first-fill bourbon casks and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. The vanilla of the bourbon wood comes through first, followed by the warmer spice of the sherry. The nose is of citrus, malt and green apples, with a light dryness from the wood. On the palate there is fresh thyme, apple and white pepper, with soft vanilla and spice. The finish is rounded by malty sweetness, with a mild floral note at the end.