Description

Lochlea Ploughing Third Crop Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 46%           Age: No Age Statement           Country: Scotland

The Whisky

Celebrate the turning of the seasons with Lochlea “Ploughing Edition” (Third Crop). As the final release in the distillery’s acclaimed seasonal cycle for 2024/2025, the “Third Crop” represents a significant evolution in the Lochlea profile. This 700ml single malt commemorates the winter months when the fields are ploughed in preparation for spring sowing.

Following the success of the first two crops, this edition continues the distillery’s bold tradition of using 100% Islay Peated Quarter Casks for maturation. By utilizing smaller “Quarter Casks,” Lochlea achieves an intensified wood to spirit interaction, resulting in a Lowland malt that defies convention. Bottled at 46% ABV, non-chill filtered and natural in colour, it offers a sophisticated “winter warmer” profile that marries Lochlea’s signature fruitiness with a refined, savoury smoke.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: An invitingly crisp and atmospheric bouquet. You are greeted by the scent of freshly cut grass and green apples, quickly followed by a gentle wave of maritime peat smoke. As it opens, deeper notes of caramelised pears and a hint of sea salt emerge, creating a balanced aroma that feels like a cold winter morning on the farm.

Palate: The mouthfeel is surprisingly creamy and well-rounded. It delivers a primary burst of sweet cooked fruits and vanilla toffee, which is immediately structured by the influence of the peated wood. Mid-palate, you’ll find a savoury complexity of roasted nuts, light ash, and a touch of black pepper, all underpinned by the distillery’s signature cereal sweetness.

Finish: Medium to long and delightfully warming. The finish lingers with a final flourish of lingering peat smoke and honeyed malt, tapering off with a refreshing trail of bright citrus peel.

The Distillery

Lochlea, located in Ayrshire, is an independent, family-run distillery situated on the very farm where Scottish poet Robert Burns lived and worked from 1777 to 1784. A unique factual detail: Lochlea is one of the few “single site” distilleries in Scotland, meaning they grow 100% of their own barley on the farm, ensuring total traceability from soil to bottle. While the Lowlands are traditionally known for light and unpeated whiskies, the “Ploughing Edition” showcases Lochlea’s willingness to experiment, using peated casks to add a rugged, smoky dimension to their elegant farm grown spirit.

Overall Review

The Lochlea Ploughing Edition (Third Crop) is globally reviewed as a “superb progression” for the brand, praised for its masterful balance of smoke and fruit. Critics have lauded its “textural depth and coastal charm,” marking it as a mandatory purchase for enthusiasts who enjoy a contemporary twist on the classic Lowland style.