Royal Lochnagar 12 Years Old

This official Royal Lochnagar single malt, a 12 year old and bottled at 40%. Royal Lochnagar was founded in 1845 by John Begg on the south bank of the Dee below Lochnagar, and Queen Victoria's 1848 visit earned it the Royal name. It is the smallest distillery in Diageo's stable, tucked beside Balmoral.

The spirit was run slow through small stills and worm tub condensers for a robust make, to build the full bodied, sherry friendly character at its heart. It was matured in refill ex-Bourbon oak, lending honey and vanilla. At twelve to sixteen years the fruit deepens into toffee, dried fruit and a warm spice. Slow distillation and warm worm tubs maximise copper contact, giving weight balanced by a fruity clarity. Royal Lochnagar is the smallest distillery in Diageo's portfolio, beside Balmoral. John Begg invited his royal neighbours over in 1848, in what is claimed as the first distillery tour. Queen Victoria is said to have laced her claret with the make after that visit.

At 40% it is smooth and fruity. Butterscotch and a fruity lift meet soft vanilla and cream from the cask. Beneath it run apple, malt and a warm spice. It closes long, fruity and warming. This is the royal malt of Deeside.