Loch Lomond 18 years

Score: 75

Loch Lomond 18 years is a quietly complex Highland single malt that reflects the distillery’s unique versatility. Nestled near the shores of its namesake loch, Loch Lomond Distillery is known for using both traditional pot stills and its signature straight-neck Lomond stills—allowing it to craft a wide range of flavor profiles from a single site. This 18-year-old expression is triple matured in American oak casks and bottled at 46%, non-chill filtered to preserve its natural texture and aromatic depth. In the recent club tasting, Loch Lomond 18 claimed third place, and it did so with understated elegance. The nose opened with green apple, honeyed cereal, and a touch of sweet tobacco, layered over old oak and a whisper of smoke that felt more Highland mist than Islay storm. On the palate, it was rounded and approachable: soft orchard fruits, toasted malt, and a hint of blackcurrant jam over nutty brown bread. There was a subtle spice, ginger and cinnamon, that added warmth without overwhelming. The finish lingered with gentle peat, citrus zest, and a trace of chocolate, fading into dry earth and leather. What made it stand out wasn’t flash or fire, it was balance and polish. It carried its age with grace, offering complexity without demanding attention. In a lineup of louder drams, Loch Lomond 18 held its ground through quiet confidence, earning respect with every sip. *CLUB TASTING NOTES* "Campbeltown-esq in the nose, burnt butter salted caramel," "Smooth, apple, fresh, chocolate. Mellow yellow" "Love the subtle aroma" "Mild sweet aroma with a light but warming taste. The finish is long and warm. It’s not one for the fireplace but it’d be nice sipping this at an easy evening."