Royal Lochnagar 12 Years Old 1998 Cask #631 + 32 (Signatory)

From Signatory Vintage comes this Royal Lochnagar, a 12 year old from 1998, drawn from cask 631 + 32 and bottled at 46%. A release of 785 bottles. Established in 1845 in Crathie on Royal Deeside, Royal Lochnagar is Diageo's smallest distillery. Much of the make has long gone into Johnnie Walker and the John Begg blends.

It was drawn off two small stills, the spirit cooled in cast iron worm tubs, for a rich, malty spirit with a fruity lift. 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. Worm tub condensing builds the mid palate weight the distillery is known for. The robust, fruity make takes sherry wood especially well. A short fermentation and slow distillation give a deep, characterful spirit. The distillery stayed in the Begg family until it passed to John Dewar and Sons. Royal Deeside has been royal country since Victoria and Albert bought Balmoral.

At 46% it is soft, malty and fruity. A gentle vanilla from the wood runs under orchard fruit and a cereal note. Beneath it run apple, malt and a warm spice. A fruity, gently spiced finish lingers long. This is a fruity, sherried Highland whisky.