The Loch Lomond Group recently launched a Littlemill 45 year old, the oldest single malt ever released from the Lowland distillery.
Founded way back in 1772, Littlemill is said to be Scotland’s oldest licensed distillery. Unfortunately, after many ownerships and being closed a few times before, the doors were closed forever in 1994. It then served as a museum for a few more years, but shortly after the building was finally sold to a developer, it went up in flames in 2004.
Although Littlemill has been closed for many years, this year, it would have celebrated its 250th anniversary this year, and the Loch Lomond Group, owner of the Littlemill brand, didn’t want to let that pass.
So especially for this occasion, Michael Henry, master blender of the Loch Lomond group and who keeps a close eye on the last remaining Littlemill casks, selected this wonderful 45 year old. Distilled in 1976, it was re-casked in 1996 into American oak hogsheads, before being finished in first-fill Oloroso sherry hogsheads for 6 months. Bottled at a strength of 41.8% ABV.
Littlemill 45 year old tasting notes:
Nose: Oranges and red apples, but it’s a bit floral too. Then vanilla and honey. Marzipan in the very back. Followed by a hint of parsley. Later also pink grapefruit and Earl Grey tea.
Taste: oh that’s lovely. Tropical fruits, such as mango and apricots. Then I get oranges and lemons. Creamy chocolate. Honey. Later also a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Finish: mid-long and slightly dry, with a touch of oak and Earl Grey tea. But also apples and again a hint of parsley.
This 45 year old is still standing proudly after all these years! A beautiful piece of history. Less fruity than the somewhat younger releases, but the character of Littlemill is still clearly present.
Sample provided by De Monnik Dranken.
