- 93
Loch Lomond Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)
As Loch Lomond produce a wide variety of single malts, it should be noted, this is a Single Grain, not a single malt. Yes, Highland Single Grain exists and Loch Lomond continue to market one to this day. Their official NAS bottling has taken out numerous awards including a Double Gold at the World Spirits Competition and Best Single Grain at the World Whisky Awards in 2017. The twist is that while this is created using a continuous still, Master Distiller, Michael Henry uses only malted barley, instead of corn or wheat or other grains typically associated with the category. So, it's essentially a Coffey distilled single malt, which explains why it delivers added complexity. Unquestionably the perfect introduction to a very niche Scotch whisky segment.
Other reviews... crisp sugars are willing to absorb the vanilla... The oak is something like most anchors at work: barely visible to invisible; Elegant grain; keeps the sweetness controlled. 93 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021
Notes from Loch Lomond... NOSE: Fresh cut barley fields with a malty edge, biscuity with baked apples alongside gentle lemon peel. TASTE Crisp and delicate. Pineapple juice and a lemon zestiness with a lovely vanilla sweetness at the end. FINISH: Gentle with soft fruits alongside a juicy sweetness. Non chill filtered. 46% Alc./Vol.