Ayrshire, Scotland – Lochlea, the award-winning farm-to-cask distillery, is launching ‘Fallow Edition,’ the third expression in a four-part seasonal limited edition whiskey series. This release, inspired by autumn on the farm, offers a deeper and richer flavor profile.
‘Fallow Edition’ (Second Crop) is exclusively matured in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, resulting in a whiskey with sweet and spiced notes, ideal for sipping during the dark autumn evenings.
The release is a tribute to the essential fallow season on the farm, a time when the land rests and rejuvenates. It also aligns with Lochlea’s sustainability program, both on the farm and at the distillery.
Following nearly five months of barley growth and the September harvest, mustard and radish cover crops are planted to prepare the soil for winter and prevent soil erosion. These crops are then grazed by sheep for 4 to 6 weeks before being returned to the soil as organic material.
Lochlea also contributes straw bales, a barley by-product, to neighboring farmers for cattle bedding. Some of this returns as manure, enriching the barley fields during winter plowing.
Neil McGeoch, owner and farmer at Lochlea, explained the significance of the fallow season, stating, “This release is so important to us as it gives us a chance to tell the story of the farm and explain some of our sustainable practices.”
‘Fallow Edition’ (Second Crop) is a blend of 55% Pedro Ximénez casks and 45% Oloroso casks. John Campbell, Production Director, highlighted the distinctive flavor profile achieved through the introduction of Pedro Ximénez casks this year, noting, “This warming and unctuous whisky starts with aromas of rich manuka honey, moving to luscious golden syrup and ground coffee beans. Layers of sweetly spiced candied ginger follow on the palate, leading to the finish offering hints of freshly crushed almonds.”
Lochlea’s seasonal releases encompass:
- Fallow Edition: Celebrating the autumn season when fields rest after harvest.
- Ploughing Edition: Released in winter, reflecting the fields being plowed in preparation for spring.
- Sowing Edition: Inspired by spring and the sowing of barley.
- Harvest Edition: Honoring the annual farm harvest.
‘Fallow Edition’ (Second Crop) is non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV, with a recommended retail price of £51.50. It will be available from Lochlea stockists starting from October 26th, 2023.
In addition to seasonal limited editions, Lochlea offers a core whisky expression available year-round, known as ‘Our Barley.’ This unpeated single malt is matured in a combination of ex-bourbon, Oloroso sherry casks, and STR barriques, creating a flavorful spirit made entirely from the distillery’s home-grown barley.