Lochlea Our Barley | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Lochlea Distillery, Lowlands, Scotland.
Type: Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is produced from barley grown on the distillery's own 90 acres of land. It undergoes maturation in first-fill bourbon barrels, sherry butts, and STR (Shaved, Toasted, and Recharged) barriques. The whisky is not colored and not chill-filtered.
Age Statement: While not explicitly stated, the reviewer suggests it feels like an 8 to 10-year-old whisky based on its flavor profile.
Color and Bottle Design: The review does not detail the color or bottle design, but emphasizes the whisky's clarity in terms of its natural production process.

The Lochlea Our Barley whisky presents a notably fruity and sweet profile, with a significant presence of fresh and fermented fruits, and a hint of wine-like aromas due to the STR barriques. It carries a maltiness with fresh fruitiness, without any metallic tastes, and integrates a slight burn smoothly. The whisky is described as refreshingly fruity, diverging from the expected dried fruits profile that sherry butts might suggest, indicating a younger but well-crafted spirit.

Lochlea Distillery is a new establishment in the Lowlands, founded in 2018, with John Campbell, a renowned figure from Laphroaig, at its helm. The distillery's land has historical significance, having belonged to Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, from 1777 to 1784. The motto of the distillery, "dare to be honest," reflects in their approach to whisky making, emphasizing authenticity and self-sufficiency in growing their own barley.

The distillery's connection to Robert Burns adds a layer of cultural heritage, situating Lochlea Our Barley within a rich Scottish tradition. The Lowlands region is known for its barley, further highlighting the significance of the distillery's location and its commitment to producing whisky from grain to bottle on its own land.

The reviewer appreciates the whisky's youthful, fruity character, describing it as "excellent" for a first core range release. The whisky's honest presentation, aligning with its slogan, is praised for its refreshing departure from older, sherry-influenced profiles.

Lochlea Our Barley is a Scotch whisky from a new Lowlands distillery, emphasizing a grain-to-bottle philosophy with its own barley cultivation.
It features a fruity and sweet flavor profile, with a youthful character suggested to be akin to an 8 to 10-year-old whisky.
The distillery's connection to John Campbell and Robert Burns adds notable storytelling elements.
The whisky's cultural significance is tied to its Scottish Lowlands origin and historical land.
The review highlights the whisky's honest and refreshing approach, making it a commendable first core range offering.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in the craft and innovation of new distilleries, as well as fans of John Campbell's work.
For Fans of Fruity Whiskies: Individuals who prefer a sweeter, fruitier whisky profile over the traditional, heavier sherry or peated flavors.
For Collectors: Given its connection to a new distillery and the historical significance of its land, this whisky might appeal to collectors looking for unique stories and potential future value.
For Casual Drinkers: The approachable, refreshing fruitiness makes it suitable for casual drinkers or those new to Scotch whisky, looking for an easy entry point without the intensity of older, more robust whiskies.