Royal Lochnagar 12 Years Old

This official Royal Lochnagar single malt, a 12 year old release and bottled at 40%. Set on Royal Deeside, beside Balmoral, Royal Lochnagar has distilled since 1845. It is one of only three distilleries permitted to carry the Royal name.

It was worked through small stills and worm tubs that build real weight, for the robust yet refined make Royal Lochnagar is known for. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the robust character to the fore. Mid age brings a fuller toffee and a deeper dried fruit note. Refill oak lets the robust distillery character lead, fruit over malt. 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. The distillery sits at the foot of Lochnagar, the mountain that gives it its name.

Reduced to 40%, it is mellow. Baked apple and toffee meet a quiet vanilla from the refill oak. Soft orchard fruit and toffee sit behind the sweetness. The close is warm, toffee over soft oak. This is the smallest of Diageo's distilleries.