Royal Lochnagar 16 Year Old, Diageo Special Release 2021

A refined example of Royal Lochnagar, somewhat shy on the nose yet full of character in the mouth. Easy to enjoy, especially as an apéritif.

On the palate, this is a lithe, vital Royal Lochnagar with all the nimble freshness of spring and sunshine in its really appealing texture and taste.

Tasting notes:
Appearance: Liquid, golden sunlight.

Body: Medium.

Nose: The very mellow and rounded nose swirls with subtle aromas. The top notes are lightly fruity, suggesting orange zest and green apple. They are encased after a while, in a hint of puff-pastry, all resting on a mossy and lightly woody base. Adding a splash of water adds to the fruit, now firm white grapes, and brings up the spiciness.

Palate: A creamy texture smoothly rolls across the palate, the lively taste barley-sugar sweet and intense from the start with luscious fruity acidity mid-palate, and a developing oaky dryness. A little water makes the creamy texture and sweetness smoother still, as an appetising spicy warmth builds.

Finish: Welcoming and warming, like the first rays of the sun after a long winter, with lingering white pepper in the lightly wood-spiced aftertaste.