Scotch whiskies may not be trending as hard as their rowdy American and Irish cousins, but this line of whiskies from Loch Lomond—previously only available outside of the States—breathes new life into the sleepy category.
There couldn’t be a better company to bring Scotland’s greatest gift to humanity (sorry, kilts and bagpipes) stateside. As an independent bottler and distiller, the Loch Lomond Group has 250 years of distilling heritage and currently owns the Loch Lomond malt and grain distillery.
Fourteen bottles will initially be available, each a fine example of its region and style. Here are six of our picks that serve as excellent introductions into the Loch Lomond Scotch collection.
Loch Lomond Reserve
At the sweet price of $19, this lightly smoky friend is a go-to session whisky. At 80 proof, you might add a splash of club soda if your session runs all night.
Loch Lomond Single Grain
Aged single grain whisky is for Goldilocks drinkers—you don’t want a blend, but single malt isn’t your thing either. For you, this whisky is juuust right. ($29)
Glen Scotia Victoriana
Even in the uptight Victorian era, the Brits loved their Scotch. This dram hails from the Campbeltown region, whisky capital of the world during the reign of Queen Victoria. Made at one of the only three remaining distilleries in the area, it’s a rare find. (You can tell by the $110 price tag.)
Loch Lomond 12 and 18 Year Old
If you’ve got some extra coin lying around, impress your boss or future father-in-law with these single malt offerings. ($66 & $123, respectively)
Inchmurrin Madeira Wood Finish
The Portuguese finish gives this whisky a stone fruit note as it hits the palate. Plus, “Inchmurrin” is fun to say.
Little Mill
If you have stacks of cash and want to jump into the world of high-end whisky collecting, this “ghost” whisky is for you, player. Representing the very last drops from Scotland’s oldest, now defunct distillery (lost in a fire 20 years ago), Little Mill is truly one of a kind at $2,500 a pop.