The Lochlea Sowing Edition Second Crop is the second release in a series of annual, limited seasonal bottlings from the independent and family-owned Lochlea Distillery in the Scottish Lowlands. This single malt whisky, bottled in 2023, is crafted exclusively with barley grown on the distillery's own farm and matured in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels, which impart a birnengelbe color and flavors of fresh fruit reminiscent of a home garden. Bottled at 46% ABV without chill-filtration or added color, the whisky offers aromas of fruity sweet apples and pears, with a palate of vanilla pods and almond oil leading to a crisp, refreshing finish with a hint of pine.
As a working farm, Lochlea's seasonal small batch releases reflect the farming calendar, with the Sowing Edition (Second Crop) coinciding with the beginning of a new farming year. This edition has been matured in first-fill ex-bourbon casks from higher up in the warehouse, resulting in a faster maturation and older liquid compared to the previous year's release.
Lochlea Distillery, founded in 2018, has been operating under the radar, with its single malt whisky now launched. The distillery is based in the Lowlands and its whisky is produced by distillery manager John Campbell, who has 34 years of experience in the industry and previously worked at Ardbeg, Bruichladdich, and Kilchoman. Each release of Lochlea Single Malt reflects the changing seasons on the farm, with the Sowing Edition showcasing a bright, fresh dram packed with fruit in the spring.
This edition is made exclusively with barley grown on Lochlea's own farm and matured in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels. It's bottled at 46% ABV without chill-filtration or added color, offering a natural tasting experience.
By maturing the whisky in first-fill ex-bourbon casks located higher up in the warehouse, the maturation process is faster, resulting in a more mature and complex flavor profile.
Lochlea Distillery's single malt whisky is produced under the guidance of John Campbell, an industry veteran with 34 years of experience at notable distilleries such as Ardbeg, Bruichladdich, and Kilchoman.
Opinions on the Lochlea Sowing Edition Second Crop vary. While some find it quite distinctive with a unique nose and expressive taste, others feel underwhelmed. A common sentiment is the whisky's sickly sweetness, which is balanced by a spicy note reminiscent of burnt peaches. Overall, it has been described as having a medium finish with a blend of spices and fruit, making it a potentially divisive but interesting dram.
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