Lochlea Breaks New Ground with Peated Sherry Cask Strength Whisky
Lochlea Distillery has set the stage for a bold new chapter with the release of its third cask strength expression — a powerful, smoky single malt that fuses rich oloroso Sherry notes with Islay peat. Crafted under the careful eye of newly appointed blender Jill Boyd, this release is a confident statement of evolution and innovation from the young Ayrshire distillery.
Lochlea Cask Strength Batch Three
Batch Three of Lochlea’s Cask Strength series marks the distillery’s first exploration into peat, paired with the deep sweetness of Sherry casks. It’s a distinctive take on modern Scottish whisky that still stays true to the distillery’s identity.
- Product Name: Lochlea Cask Strength Batch Three
- Brand: Lochlea Distillery
- Category: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
- Country: Scotland
- Region: Ayrshire (Lowlands)
- Distillery: Lochlea
- Age: NAS (No Age Statement)
- Style: Cask Strength, Peated, Sherry Cask Matured
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 59.8%
- Launch Date: 29 May 2025
- Price: £67 (approx. US$91)
- Range: Cask Strength Annual Series
- Availability: Select retailers worldwide
Tasting Notes
Lochlea’s peated debut offers a bold sensory journey with sweet smoke and spice at its core.
- Appearance/Color: Deep amber
- Nose/Aroma: Ripe red fruits, gentle barbecue smoke
- Palate/Flavour: Cherries, dark molasses, ginger cake, toasted rye bread, charred wood smoke
- Finish: Warming and smoky with lingering spice
Key Highlights
This whisky redefines Lochlea’s core style by introducing peat into the mix — a first for the distillery and its new blender.
Features & Benefits:
- First peated release from Lochlea
- Matured in a blend of oloroso Sherry butts and ex-Islay peated casks
- Curated entirely by master blender Jill Boyd from concept to bottle
- High-proof, non-chill filtered release
- Balances sweet, spicy, and smoky profiles in one dram
USPs:
- Brings together two fan-favorite whisky styles: Sherry and peat
- A bold evolution in the brand’s house style
- Affordable price for a cask strength small-batch release
Experts’ View:
Jill Boyd expressed pride in the expression, stating, “It’s complex, it’s warming, and it’s got a smoky twist.” Early buzz from whisky enthusiasts praises the balance of smoke and sweetness, calling it a “barbecue dram” perfect for warm-weather sipping. It’s a release that pushes Lochlea’s profile into fresh, exciting territory.
FAQs
1. Is this the first peated whisky from Lochlea?
Yes, Cask Strength Batch Three is Lochlea’s debut release, incorporating peat.
2. What type of casks were used?
It’s matured in oloroso Sherry butts and ex-Islay peated casks.
3. Is it a limited release?
Yes, it’s part of Lochlea’s annual Cask Strength series, available while stocks last.
