LOCH LOMOND 'THE OPEN COURSE COLLECTION 2025'
ROYAL PORTRUSH EDITION
22 YEAR SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY
SCOTLAND
WHY BUY:
Talk about a charmer. This 22-year single malt was created to commemorate the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush. But what we love about it is that it’s quintessential Loch Lomond, one of our favorite Highland distilleries. And why? They're the only distillery in Scotland to use 100% malted barley for single grain whisky, the only distillery in the world to make peated single grain whisky, and — what’s more — they do their distillations in “straight neck" pot stills, for stronger, fuller character. It all makes for some pretty distinct and luscious single malts, and you see those qualities on full and glorious display here. We defy you to resist it. And hurry: this one closes shortly after the final putt drops on the 72nd hole.
OUR TASTING NOTES:
A wonderful ride of a whisky, from the layers of deep, ripe fruit to the gentle waves of golden honey to that signature soft smoke that's so insinuating, and so unforgettable, and lingers on long after the final sip. The beauty, here, is that that’s not all. There are so many other notes in addition, including rich toffee, tropical pineapple, bright lemon, and warming cinnamon, all of which bring nuance and dimension to each sip. The Spanish oak cask finish, we should add, has done wonders, bringing a distinctive character without overpowering the fruit and honey foundation that defines the house style.
THE STORY:
The current Loch Lomond Distillery emerged in 1965, from the bold vision of one Duncan Thomas, the former owner of the beloved Littlemill Distillery. Thomas brought innovative straight neck pot stills — featuring rectifying plates in cylindrical necks rather than traditional open swan necks — that had only ever been used at Littlemill. This unique still design allows for alcohol production up to 90% ABV compared to the 70% of conventional stills, making for different and more robust flavor profiles that would be impossible to achieve through standard pot stills. The distillery's location at an industrial estate by the river Leven, linking Loch Lomond with the Clyde, has proven to be the optimal spot for their increasingly ambitious operations.
THE PARTNERSHIP:
Loch Lomond Whiskies currently serve as the official spirit of The Open, with a five-year partnership celebrating golf's original Championship. This collaboration has produced various limited editions, but the 22 Year represents, we think, their most sophisticated tribute yet. The choice to finish in Spanish oak casks is a historical nod to the 16th century sinking of a Spanish armada ship near Portrush.
THE METHOD:
Production begins with their unique Straight Neck pot stills, the only stills of their kind operating in Scotland today. The whisky undergoes initial maturation in American oak barrels and hogsheads before the crucial Spanish oak cask finish that distinguishes this release. Not only do they operate their own cooperage on-site, but they also produce numerous whiskies using several types of stills, making them arguably Scotland's most flexible and innovative distillery.
ABV:
46% (92 proof), non-chill filtered with natural color.
WHAT TO PAIR IT WITH:
Not all whiskies are meant for pairing, but this one is; it’s a sophisticated companion that goes beautifully with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, or honey-glazed salmon, and, with its subtle smoke, is even great with apple-based desserts.
FUN FACT:
If you have any familiarity with the comic series Tintin (which the French adore, and, well — maybe only the French adore) "Loch Lomond" is the name of the whisky brand consumed by Captain Haddock. (It’s entirely an imaginary whisky, however, and has no connection to the actual distillery.)
OUR GUARANTEE:
As always, we only buy and source directly from the producer, to ensure pristine provenance. Secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Fall 2025. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. The price reflected on your order form is subject to change after the order is placed in the event of a change in tariffs or taxes that are imposed by the U.S. government, or in the case of currency fluctuations of 10% or greater. Offer only valid in CA, FL, IL, MA, NJ, NV, & TX. This offer will expire on Sunday, July 20, 2025.