Loch Lomond 19 Year The Open Course Collection Royal Portrush

Rating: 19/23 Chosen for a special golf-themed celebration, fitting the occasion. Nose: Exhibits classic Loch Lomond funk, aged character, with ethanol mingled with apples, apricots, and dry, bitter vanilla. The prominent ethanol aroma, though clean, overshadows other scents. A touch of bitter mustiness is present but acceptable. A subtle, controlled savory note, not quite meaty or soy-like, and a hint of yeast. Palate: Sweet fruit with cinnamon. Notes of red fruit like currants, then apricot and tangerine. Slightly oily, suggesting an oloroso cask influence, with pleasant maltiness. The characteristic Loch Lomond funk is subdued but detectable, harmonizing with mellow wood notes. An aged funkiness emerges, reminiscent of scotch diluted with too much water, yet remaining on the positive side. Hints of peppermint alongside nice dark chocolate and caramel notes. Finish: Features some funk and increased bitterness. Layers of malt, caramel, apricot, vanilla, apple, and musty wood are present. A complex and decadent finish that is quite approachable. Conclusion A very pleasant dram, demonstrating Loch Lomond's capability for quality even at advanced ages. The finishing is expertly handled, unifying the profile and adding vibrancy and richness. Superior to Signatory's Inchmurrin 17 (1996) (15/23), which is lower in ABV and exhibits a more bitter, diluted taste, as well as being harsher and less balanced. This expression showcases more wood, balance, vanilla, and spices, with less bite. Bladnoch 17 California Red Wine Cask Finish (17/23) offers similar complexity but is less balanced, with unusual notes like black licorice, buckwheat, and menthol. This is more approachable, balanced, mature, and rich. It still shows signs of over-maturation but is not bad overall, easily a 18. Ben Bracken 28 (18/23) is more bitter, mellow, funky, watery, and complex. Its primary drawback is excessive dilution, otherwise, it would surpass this. The two are competitive, though this might edge it out slightly due to its decadent vanilla notes. Currently rated an 18, with potential for a 19 or even 20. An excellent dram, though not exceptionally groundbreaking. Revisiting after half an hour, leaning towards an 18. It's excellent, but still slightly hampered by bitterness and a lack of nuanced complexity. Better than Wild Turkey Rare Breed 116.8 (18-19/23), but not by a significant margin. The Rare Breed remains the best value choice.