Royal Lochnagar 29 Years Old 1952 (Connoisseurs Choice)

This Royal Lochnagar was from the independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, a 29 year old release from 1952 and bottled at 40%. Royal Lochnagar was founded in 1845 by John Begg on the south bank of the Dee below Lochnagar, and Victoria and Albert's 1848 visit brought the royal warrant. Unusually, it is the only Diageo distillery still to fill its own casks on site.

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 rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. Long ageing brings a deep dried fruit character and a mellow oak spice. The full bodied new make carries cask character well across long maturation. The malt long fed the John Begg and Johnnie Walker blends before its single malt fame. It is one of only three distilleries permitted to carry the Royal name. Unusually, casks are still filled on the premises, straight from the still.

Bottled at 40%, it is rounded. Toffee, pear and a warm spice sit alongside soft vanilla and cream from the cask. A baked apple and a warm spice lift it. It closes long, fruity and warming. This is the regal little malt of Lochnagar.