Lochlea Launches First Permanent Whisky Collection
Lochlea Distillery in Ayrshire has unveiled its first permanent whisky collection, the Single Estate Range, bringing three new expressions – Orchard & Oak, Dark Briar, and Smoke Without Fire – to sit alongside its flagship Our Barley. After closing out its much-loved seasonal series, the distillery now signals a bold step forward in maturity, consistency, and long-term vision, offering whisky lovers a permanent lineup rooted in Ayrshire soil and character.
Lochlea Launches First Permanent Whisky Collection
The Single Estate Range officially debuts on 4 September, available in the UK and across more than 30 international markets. Each expression is crafted entirely onsite – from barley grown at Lochlea Farm to maturation and blending within the distillery – ensuring complete traceability and authenticity.
- Expressions: Orchard & Oak, Dark Briar, Smoke Without Fire
- ABV: 46% (non-chill filtered)
- Format: 700ml bottles
- Price: £50 (US$67) each
- Availability: Whisky specialists, independent retailers, and export markets
- Brand: Lochlea Distillery
- Category: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
- Country: Scotland
- Region: Ayrshire, Lowlands
- Distillery: Lochlea Farm Distillery
- Range: Single Estate Range (permanent)
- Age: NAS (matured stock from 2005 onward)
- Style: Fruit-forward single malt with distinctive cask influences
- Launch Date: 4 September
Tasting Notes
Each whisky offers its own story while carrying the signature fruit-forward Lochlea style.
Orchard & Oak
- Appearance: Golden straw
- Nose: Fresh green apple, cut grass, light florals
- Palate: Apple cake, buttery caramel, oaky spice
- Finish: Crisp, refreshing, orchard-led
Dark Briar
- Appearance: Deep amber
- Nose: Red berries, vanilla caramel, baking spices
- Palate: Sweet sherry richness, dried fruits, spiced oak
- Finish: Lingering warmth with dark fruit depth
Smoke Without Fire
- Appearance: Rose gold
- Nose: Cherry blossom, red berries, bonfire smoke
- Palate: Salted smoke, bonfire char, floral undertones
- Finish: Balanced smokiness with a subtle sweetness
Key Highlights
The Single Estate Range highlights Lochlea’s philosophy of sustainability, transparency, and craft.
- 100% farm-grown barley used for production
- Matured and bottled onsite for complete traceability
- Consistent quality supported by diverse mature stocks
- Permanent addition to the portfolio after seasonal successes
- Affordable entry point at £50 for a premium single malt
Final Overview
Master Blender Jill Boyd describes the collection as a “rounder family of whiskies” designed to echo the creativity of Lochlea’s seasonal releases while offering classic styles with a distinct twist. Early impressions from whisky enthusiasts highlight the balance of innovation and tradition, making the Single Estate Range an accessible yet collectible addition to the global single malt scene.
FAQs
Q1: What makes the Lochlea Single Estate Range unique?
It’s produced entirely from barley grown on Lochlea Farm, matured and bottled onsite, ensuring full traceability and authenticity.
Q2: How many whiskies are in the range?
The permanent lineup includes Our Barley plus three new expressions – Orchard & Oak, Dark Briar, and Smoke Without Fire.
Q3: Where can I buy the Single Estate Range?
It’s available from UK whisky specialists, independent retailers, and in over 30 export markets.
