Royal Lochnagar 21 Years Old 2000 Cask #HL 18757 (Edition Spirits)

A Royal Lochnagar single malt, selected and bottled by Edition Spirits in the The First Editions matured to 21 year old from 2000, drawn from cask HL 18757 and bottled at 57%. Only 289 bottles were released. Set near Balmoral Castle in the eastern Highlands, Royal Lochnagar has distilled since 1845. Water is drawn from springs in the hills of Lochnagar, the mountain that gives the name.

Distilled in a tiny pair of copper stills and condensed in traditional worm tubs, giving a weighty, fruity spirit with real depth. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the robust character to the fore. At this age it is full and rounded, the fruit folded into a rich, spiced body. Years in oak round the spirit, the toffee and dried fruit deepening with age. Water is drawn from springs in the Deeside hills above the River Dee. Two small stills and worm tubs build a weight unusual for a distillery this size.

At its natural 57% it is concentrated. The refill oak lending honey and vanilla, with green apple and a malty depth. The mouthfeel is weighty, the fruit carried on a malty body. A warming, malty finish lingers. This is a characterful Highland malt of real weight.