Loch Lomond 18 Year Old

Loch Lomond 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky: A Richly Rewarding Dram

The Loch Lomond 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is an award-winning expression that showcases the distillery's signature style. Aged for 18 years in a selection of the finest oak casks, this whisky delivers a complex and rewarding drinking experience.

Nose:

The initial aroma of the Loch Lomond 18 Year Old is inviting and layered. Ripe orchard fruits, like baked apple and pear, take centre stage, mingling with hints of citrus zest, particularly grapefruit. As the whisky opens up in the glass, deeper notes emerge. Sweet honey and floral honeysuckle add a touch of elegance, while hints of mature oak provide a grounding influence. For some palates, a subtle smokiness may peek through, adding a touch of intrigue.

Palate:

The first sip of Loch Lomond 18 Year Old reveals a full-bodied and rounded mouthfeel. The initial sweetness echoes the nose, with notes of caramelised apple and toffee dancing on the tongue. Hints of vanilla and baking spice, like cinnamon and nutmeg, add further complexity. As the whisky develops, a pleasant warmth spreads through the palate, complemented by a subtle touch of peat smoke. This smokiness is never overpowering, but rather serves to balance the sweetness and create a harmonious flavour profile. Underlying all these elements is a rich oakiness, testament to the whisky's long maturation.

Finish:

The Loch Lomond 18 Year Old boasts a long and lingering finish. The sweetness gradually fades, leaving behind a touch of dried fruit and a gentle oaky dryness. The subtle smokiness persists, adding a touch of complexity to the aftertaste. Hints of pipe tobacco and dried tea leaves may also emerge, offering a touch of intrigue.

Serving Suggestions:

To fully appreciate the complexities of the Loch Lomond 18 Year Old, it's best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Sipping it neat allows you to savour the full range of flavours and aromas. A few drops of water can be added to open up the whisky further and release some of the higher alcohol notes.

For those who prefer their whisky with a touch of dilution, a single, large ice cube is the ideal choice. This will slowly melt, chilling the whisky slightly without watering it down excessively.

Food Pairing:

The Loch Lomond 18 Year Old's rich and complex flavour profile makes it a versatile whisky that can be enjoyed alongside a variety of foods. Here are a few suggestions:

• Cheese: Pair the Loch Lomond 18 Year Old with creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert. The sweetness of the whisky will complement the creaminess of the cheese, while the smokiness will cut through the richness.
• Dark Chocolate: The rich chocolate notes will complement the oaky character of the whisky, while the sweetness of the chocolate will help to tame the smokiness.
• Desserts: Enjoy the Loch Lomond 18 Year Old with fruit-based desserts, like apple pie or pecan pie. The sweetness of the dessert will mirror the sweetness of the whisky, while the fruit flavours will create a harmonious pairing.
• Smoked Meats: The subtle smokiness of the whisky pairs well with smoked meats like salmon or duck. The smoky flavours will complement each other, while the sweetness of the whisky will help to balance the saltiness of the meat.

Overall:

The Loch Lomond 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a luxurious dram that offers a complex and rewarding drinking experience. Its combination of sweetness, fruitiness, smokiness, and oaky maturity makes it a perfect choice for whisky enthusiasts who appreciate a well-rounded dram. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or paired with food, the Loch Lomond 18 Year Old is sure to leave a lasting impression.