The smallest of Diageo's distilleries, Lochnagar has been available as a single malt longer than most people realise. Very old examples have been bottled by G&M for a number of decades now, usually under their 'Avonside' label or simply by the name Lochnagar.

Lochnagar is a spirit that seems to show equally well in sherry and bourbon, it is rare to find bourbon matured examples from the owners but independent examples can be found. They are usually much more herbaceous, oily and fruity. The official 12yo is a good sherried benchmark for Lochnagar with its rich notes of fragrant smoke, Dundee cake and mulling spices. However, the 'select reserve' bottlings are often something of a let down by comparison, especially considering the price.

Diageo are rightly proud of Lochnagar, it is a neatly produced, distinctive malt with great provenance and the quality seems to have maintained itself well over the years. Let's hope there is still enough to stock in the hands of the independents so that we can have a steady and balanced range of expressions from this great wee distillery.