Whisky Review/Tasting: Loch Lomond Single Grain

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Loch Lomond, Scotland.
Type: Single Grain Scotch Whisky.
Distillation Process: Distilled using column stills, a method that distinguishes it from single malt whisky, which is distilled using pot stills.
Maturation Process: Matured in re-refill casks that contribute to its flavor profile.
Age Statement: Estimated to be between 3 to 5 years old, based on taste analysis.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the whisky's light and friendly nature might suggest a lighter color.
Bottle Design: Not described in the transcript.

Balance of Flavors: Presents a straightforward balance between fruitiness and maltiness, with a notable citrus note.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky is distinguished by its use of malted barley distilled in column stills, resulting in a lighter, smoother spirit with a unique flavor profile that includes malty biscuit, apples, citrus, pineapple, and a deep spiciness from tannins.
Comparison: The flavor profile is unique due to its production method, making direct comparisons challenging. However, its smoothness and lightness might appeal to those who enjoy lighter single malts or innovative grain whiskies.

Innovative Production: Loch Lomond Distillery's use of both column and pot stills under one roof allows for the creation of this unique single grain whisky from malted barley, a method made possible by changes in whisky legislation in 2009.
Legislative Changes: The 2009 whisky regulations in Great Britain, which defined single malt whisky as needing to be produced in pot stills, inadvertently paved the way for the creation of this innovative single grain whisky.

Loch Lomond Distillery: One of the few distilleries in Scotland to house both column and pot stills, allowing for a wide range of whisky production methods and styles. This unique capability underscores the distillery's innovative approach to whisky making.

Horst Luening's Opinion: Luening finds the whisky to be quite interesting and innovative, praising its smoothness and flavor profile. He expresses regret that the whisky's classification as a grain whisky might deter malt whisky enthusiasts from trying it.
Quote: "Quite interesting, quite innovative and only possible because the legislation changed."

Loch Lomond Single Grain is a unique Scotch whisky distilled from malted barley using column stills.
It features a light, smooth flavor profile with notes of malty biscuit, apples, citrus, pineapple, and spiciness.
The whisky is a product of innovative production methods and legislative changes that allow for its unique classification.
Estimated to be 3 to 5 years old, it offers good value for its price, especially considering its 46% ABV.
The distillery's unique capability to produce both single malt and single grain whisky under one roof could potentially lead to the creation of a "single blended whisky."

Whisky Enthusiasts Interested in Production Methods: Those curious about the impact of distillation techniques on flavor.
Innovative Whisky Seekers: Individuals looking for unique, unconventional whiskies.
Budget-Conscious Consumers: Given its reasonable price and high ABV, it's an attractive option for those seeking quality without a high cost.
New Whisky Drinkers: Its smoothness and lighter flavor profile might appeal to those new to whisky or those who prefer lighter spirits.