Launching on the 6 September 2022, it is the second expression in an annual limited edition series, following on from Lochlea ‘Sowing Edition’ (First Crop) which launched in March 2022.
Lochlea ‘Harvest Edition’ (First Crop) is inspired by the busy harvest season on Lochlea Farm, when the barley is ready to be harvested and eventually used for next year’s whisky.
The bottle’s ashy coral red label and carton were chosen to reflect the summer sunsets and Ayrshire soil, which changes to a deep red hue once the barley has been harvested.
John Campbell, Lochlea Production Director and Master Blender, said: “’Harvest Edition’ (First Crop) is a combination of three cask styles.
"The main point of emphasis is to introduce Port cask flavours into Lochlea single malt.”
“Port casks will help to elevate summer fruits and creaminess to the Lochlea signature flavour profile.”
Commercial Manager David Ferguson added: “We have been overwhelmed again with the response to this second limited edition in the First Crop Series. These small batch releases sit perfectly alongside our core ongoing whisky, Lochlea ‘Our Barley’.”
“With ‘Harvest Edition’ I can’t wait to find out what our customers think, as the introduction of Port casks adds a whole new layer of flavour to our signature Lochlea fruit and cereal notes.”
With demand far greater than available stock, Lochlea ‘Harvest Edition’ (First Crop) is on allocation to key UK retail and wholesale partners, and across 15 export markets.
There are only 9,000 bottles globally. At 46% ABV, Lochlea ‘Harvest Edition’ (First Crop) will retail for £50 and, as with all Lochlea whiskies, is non chill-filtered with no artificial colouring.
Lochlea ‘Harvest Edition’ (First Crop) Official Tasting Notes:
Nose: Stewed apples, pear drops, oat biscuits
Palate: Strawberries, violet, toasted marshmallows
Finish: Signature Lochlea cereal, freshly cut grass
ABV: 46%
RRP: £50.00
