Adam’s Notes

Oh the Ru Na Fian… where do I start? When picking our cask lineup for celebrating 20 years of The Strath, I wanted to make sure there was a whisky in the lineup for everyone to enjoy. And when I realised that I had FOUR sherry casks on order, I made a special effort to make sure we had a bourbon cask whisky in the mix as well. I also wanted to have an unpeated malt in the lineup, for those of you who aren’t a fan of the smoke.

Each producer that we’ve picked for this year’s celebrations has a special place in the history of this store, and Loch Lomond is no different. After sampling dozens of single casks through the SMWS, we’ve become quite big fans of what they’re doing over there at the wonderful whisky factory. In fact, last summer we even went as far as special ordering their “Single Grain” release and having the exclusive on it. I was given the option of several casks, and chose this one with the aim of releasing a super summery whisky in the summer. I love it when a good plan comes together!

The nose opens with Maynards Fuzzy Peaches and apple Jolly Ranchers, with a zesty fresh grapefruit dusted with powdered sugar. The palate takes those flavours and adds in a bit of mineralic complexity, reminding me of eating those Popeye candy cigarettes while writing with chalk on the pavement after a summer rain. It’s a big giant of a dram, that is hugely peach forward. Like a crossover between the BFG and James And The Giant Peach. It’s a Roald Dhal dram! There’s a floral note that reminds me of daisies and daffodils, and a creamy sweet ginger aftertaste. The finish is sweet and lingering, beckoning you to take another sip and start.

But what does Fu Na Fian mean? I explain all in the unbottling video here.

Distillery Tasting Notes

Layers of sweet blossom honey and zesty lemon rind intermingle with candied ginger and ripe peaches. There are sugared almonds and fresh coconut, before lingering oak spice.