Royal Lochnagar Selected Reserve

A distillery bottling of Royal Lochnagar in the Diageo Special Releases 2007 and bottled at 43%. Just 4710 bottles were filled. Founded in 1845 on the Balmoral estate's doorstep in Deeside, Royal Lochnagar is Diageo's smallest distillery. Water is drawn from springs in the hills of Lochnagar, the mountain that gives the name.

The spirit was made in one of Scotch's smallest still pairs, condensed in worm tubs, for a deep, fruity make of unusual weight for its size. It rested in ex-Bourbon oak, the wood adding a light honeyed sweetness. Carrying no age, it leans on toffee, dried fruit and a warm spice. A short fermentation and small stills give a deep, characterful make. 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.

At an easy 43% it is gentle. Vanilla and a creamy note from the barrel, with green apple and a malty depth. The mouthfeel is weighty, the fruit carried on a malty body. The finish runs malty, spiced and rich. This is a characterful Highland malt of real weight.