Royal Lochnagar 10yo 1998-2009 46% Signatory Vintage cask#613
Royal Lochnagar has always been a whisky with major sherry components, as I remember. This is a bourbon-matured bottling. The nose is full of vanilla, very sweet and pleasant. The taste has three layers, first it's sweet and full of vanilla, then it becomes very dry and sort of bitter before it ends with a medium long and very distinctive peppery aftertaste. This has some sort of complex lightness if that makes any sense. A straightforward malt with just that little extra.
I think this could be a very successful mainstream malt: 6.5
Royal Lochnagar 12yo 40% OB
I find the odors, in this often ignored malt, quite exciting actually. Some citrussy notes, some honey, a bit rum, and wonderful dark chocolate. The taste is mildly spiced with hints of juniper berries, liquorice and a mild cigar. The finish brings sweetness of carrots and apricot tea to the table. Unfortunately it is a bit too much, very many flavours are combined and it is hard to find a true character.
All in all a good experience: 5.5
