Dining

Lochlea first stout aged single malt is a must-try for whisky fans and craft beer lovers

Lochlea whisky Overtone bottle and can

Ayrshire-based Lochlea distillery has launched its first-ever single malt whisky matured in stout beer casks. This UK-exclusive promises a unique flavour profile born from a creative collaboration with Glasgow’s craft brewery, Overtone.

The journey of this expression began with Lochlea’s signature single malt, Our Barley, which was initially matured in a mix of ex-bourbon, STR (shaved, toasted, re-charred), and oloroso sherry casks.

The liquid was then transferred into casks that had been loaned to Overtone Brewery, where they were used to mature a robust stout beer. After seasoning the casks for several months, the barrels were returned to Lochlea, ready to impart their rich stout character to the whisky.

This UK-exclusive release promises a unique flavour profile…

Non-chill filtered and bottled at 52% ABV, the resulting single malt blends the floral, fruity notes of Lochlea’s Lowland spirit with the deep, roasted characteristics of Overtone’s stout. On the nose, expect all-butter shortbread, tropical fruit, and macadamia nuts, with sweet toffee and toasted barley on the palate.

Says Emma Kirk, Trade Sales Manager at Lochlea: “As an independent distillery, we have the freedom to experiment and create unique expressions. Partnering with Overtone Brewery was a natural fit, and the result of aging Our Barley in stout-seasoned casks is a whisky we are immensely proud of…”

Lochlea Stout Cask Finish whisky is available at select specialist retailers across the UK, priced at £59.99. 

Karen Gillan fronts Compass Box Hedonism 2026 limited edition Scotch whisky

Actor Karen Gillan has been unveiled as The Muse for Scotch whiskymaker Compass Box, gracing the label art for the company’s upcoming 2026 Hedonism release.  A fan favourite in blockbuster franchises such as Doctor Who (Amy Pond), Guardians of the Galaxy (Nebula) and Jumanji (Ruby Roundhouse), Gillan has become one of Scotland’s most recognisable international…

Celebrity-founded Brother’s Bond Bourbon makes UK debut with starry four-grain whiskey range

Brother’s Bond Bourbon has launched in the UK, bringing its premium four-grain American whiskey portfolio to British shelves for the first time. Founded in 2020, the celebrity-fuelled brand has been making waves Stateside with accessible yet layered bourbon and rye, distinguished by hands-on blending, careful barrel selection, and a commitment to regenerative agriculture. Co-founders Ian…

Valentine’s Day drinks gift guide: fine wine, champagne and rare spirits they’ll love

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Hackstons of Knightsbridge is offering a curated selection of last-minute luxury drinks gifts certain to elevate the most romantic night of the year. In-house expert Guillaume Ragot has selected five outstanding bottles that tick all the right boxes, from celebratory sparkling wines, to memorable sippers, and luxury after-dinner…

Unknown's avatar

About Steve May

Creator of Home Cinema Choice magazine, and Editor of The Luxe Review, Steve muses and reviews for Trusted Reviews, T3, Home Cinema Choice, Games Radar, Good Housekeeping, Louder Sounds, StereoNet and Boat International. He’s also the editor of professional home cinema website Inside CI. He's on Twitter/X, Tiktok and Instagram as @SteveMay_UK