Loch Lomond 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Overall good Scotch, great smell, beautiful color, heavy burn, overall good taste

I can’t explain it, other than mental state of believing it should taste like a bourbon. So my review is bias just like if you ask me if Hershey is the best chocolate (far from it) but I’m used to it so I’ll eat it.

I was a little tentative about scotch; it is usually harsh to my palate. But, after the first sip, I thought it tasted fresh . I like it.

Loch Lomond 12 Year Old is a captivating and elegant expression that offers a harmonious balance of rich flavors and a smooth, approachable character. As a single malt, it captures the essence of the distillery’s unique approach, blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative techniques.

Nose:
The nose immediately greets you with a burst of bright fruit notes—green apple, pear, and a hint of tropical pineapple. Beneath these fruity aromas, there’s a delicate undercurrent of honey, toasted nuts, and a touch of malted barley, all of which make it inviting yet sophisticated. A faint wisp of oak adds complexity without being overpowering, suggesting the influence of its 12-year maturation.

Palate:
On the palate, Loch Lomond 12 Year Old offers a rich, layered experience. The initial sweetness of vanilla and caramel quickly gives way to more nuanced flavors—creamy toffee, ripe fruits, and a subtle malty backbone. There’s a slight nuttiness that adds a warm, comforting feel, and a light touch of spice from the oak casks, which brings a bit of peppery heat that is balanced out by the whisky’s smooth texture.

Mid-palate, the fruitiness comes back into play, with notes of orchard fruits like apple and pear once again, accompanied by a soft floral undertone that adds complexity. The whisky is medium-bodied, not too heavy, but with enough presence to make it feel satisfying.

Finish:
The finish is long and gently warming, with a soft, lingering sweetness that trails off into a light, pleasant oakiness. There’s a touch of smoke toward the very end, but it’s very subtle, more of a whisper than a prominent flavor. It leaves you with a clean and refreshing aftertaste, which makes you want to take another sip.

Versatility:
Loch Lomond 12 Year Old works beautifully both neat and with a splash of water, which opens up the flavors even more. Its smooth and well-rounded profile makes it an excellent choice for those new to single malts, while its subtle complexity will keep the attention of seasoned whisky drinkers. It also shines in a whisky-forward cocktail like a Whisky Sour or an Old Fashioned, though it’s certainly best enjoyed on its own.

Final Thoughts:
Loch Lomond 12 Year Old is a delightful whisky that offers an exceptional balance of fruit, spice, oak, and sweetness. It’s well-crafted and easy to drink, with enough complexity to appeal to a wide range of whisky lovers. Whether you’re sipping it on a quiet evening or sharing it with friends, it’s a bottle that showcases the best of the Loch Lomond distillery’s commitment to quality. A perfect choice for anyone looking to explore a refined yet approachable single malt Scotch.

Perfect balance of sweet and smoky. One of my favorite scotches