Lochlea Distillery is nestled in the picturesque landscape of South Ayrshire, Scotland, a region renowned for its rich agricultural heritage and as the birthplace of Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns. Established relatively recently in the context of Scottish whisky history, the distillery harnesses the bounty of its locale to create a range of singular single malt Scotch whiskies.
Located on a working farm, Lochlea prides itself on a ‘field-to-bottle’ ethos. With their barley grown on-site and water sourced from an on-site borehole tapping into the ancient water source of Lochlea, they have an unusual degree of control over their ingredients, allowing for a whisky that is a true representation of its terroir. The production process at Lochlea is similarly thoughtful, ensuring that each stage, from fermentation through to maturation, is executed in a way that is mindful of both tradition and innovation.
This distillery utilises a long fermentation process, giving the yeast ample time to act upon the sugars in the malted barley, developing a rich and complex array of flavours and aromas that will carry through to the final spirit. Their copper pot stills, which were handcrafted and designed specifically for the distillery, further contribute to the character of Lochlea whisky, ensuring a spirit that is smooth and flavourful.
The spirit then undergoes maturation in a carefully curated selection of casks. The art of cask selection is critical to the final whisky, and Lochlea, aware of this, selects casks that will complement and enhance their spirit. Whether choosing ex-bourbon barrels, sherry butts, or any number of other options, each cask type will impart its own unique influence, adding layers of flavour and complexity to the whisky.
Lochlea’s expressions embody the ethos of the distillery, crafting whiskies that are reflective of their environment and the passionate people who create them. Guided by traditional Scottish whisky-making practices yet unafraid to introduce innovative methods, Lochlea has quickly garnered attention and appreciation amongst whisky enthusiasts.
A visit to Lochlea is not just a visit to a distillery. It’s an immersion into a locale that is steeped in history and tradition. Here, amidst the rolling hills and fertile fields, one can experience firsthand the journey of field-to-bottle, exploring how the vibrant environment and the team’s dedication intertwine to create a whisky that is truly reflective of its origins. Through meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability, Lochlea is crafting not just whisky but a legacy that honours its splendid Scottish terroir.