Royal Lochnagar The Distillers Edition 13 Years Old 1998

This Royal Lochnagar, an official release in the The Distillers Edition matured to 13 year old from 1998, drawn from cask RL/98-11V and bottled at 40%. Royal Lochnagar was opened in 1845 on the south bank of the Dee below Lochnagar; Victoria and Albert's 1848 visit brought the royal warrant. Queen Victoria is said to have laced her claret with the make.

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. An ex-Bourbon barrel shaped it, gentle American oak beneath the fruit. Mid age brings a fuller toffee and a deeper dried fruit note. The full bodied new make carries cask character well across long maturation. 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.

At an approachable 40% it is balanced. A robust, fruity sweetness sit alongside soft vanilla and cream from the cask. It is robust and deep, the malty spirit shining through. Orchard fruit and toffee draw out the close. This is Royal Lochnagar's full bodied Highland style.