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Whisky Review: Lochlea Overtone Stout Cask Finish

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Whisky Review: Lochlea Overtone Stout Cask Finish

Name: Lochlea Overtone Stout Cask Finish Whisky Review: Tasting Notes & Analysis
Item: Whisky Review: Lochlea Overtone Stout Cask Finish
Rating: 8
Author: Phil Dwyer

Lochlea Overtone Stout Cask Finish features single malt scotch finished in stout-treated barrels.

by Phil Dwyer
December 9, 2024

Phil Dwyer is a freelance whisky writer, YouTuber, and former manager of The Whisky Shop Manchester, UK.

Tasting Notes:

About:

A collaboration between two lowland independents! Lochlea and Overtone, who, were in need of whisky casks for their first ever double mash stout. The beer was matured in these casks for 6 months before being returned to Lochlea, after which they were filled with the distilleries course expression, Our Barley.

Appearance:

Lager Gold.

Nose:

A combination of sweet fruits and some darker note of chocolate and caramel. There’s almost a fizziness of ginger beer to it, too. The longer it is left in the glass, the fruit notes become less juicy and more about fresh lemon and baked apples. Those caramel and toffee notes are still pushing through.

Palate:

Sweet barley and some gentle roasted coffee notes. The alcohol percentage just push in a little but is quickly mellowed by some already classic Lochlea sweetness this is rich in lemon, grapefruit, and baked apples. The stout influences are mellow and rolling with notes of chocolate, toffee and the slightest hit of sweet tobacco.

Finish:

Rich, mellow and domaine with those stout notes. If you’re into this warming, rich, tasty notes that stout can bring then this is wonderful example of it.

Comments:

This is a really cool collaboration between two localised independents, but it’s a process that has benefited both parties regarding flavor! These two products are working in such harmony together. This is really tasty whisky that should push Lochlea into new drinkers eye view.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

What Types Of Casks Have Been Used In The Lochlea Overtone Release?

Lochlea collaborated with Overtone Brewing for the maturation of their double-mash stout, utilizing a selection of six casks: three bourbon barrels, two STR (shaved, toasted, and re-charred) barriques, and one Oloroso sherry butt. After six months of seasoning with stout, the casks were returned to Lochlea, where they were filled with the distillery’s house core range distillate, destined for the Our Barley release.

While many beer-matured whisky releases tend to rely solely on bourbon casks, this collaboration stands out for its diverse array of cask styles. The combination of bourbon, STR, and sherry casks introduces a rich tapestry of flavors, showcasing the nuanced influence of each barrel type.

What Makes This Release Unique?

When two truly independent brands collaborate, the results often benefit both parties, and this partnership is no exception. For their UK Exclusive release, bottled at 52%, only three of the six casks were used. The remaining three casks are still maturing in Lochlea’s warehouses, hinting that this project may not end with a single release. The future of this collaboration remains unwritten, leaving plenty of room for anticipation.

Is The Lochlea Overtone Release Good Value For Money?

Lochlea releases have consistently offered great value since their launch, with bottles rarely exceeding £60. The creative collaboration between the two brands, combined with the fact that only half the stock was used for this first (and so far only) release, makes this an exciting addition to any collection—if you’ve got the space!

While many other brands have opted for higher RRPs and bold cask influences on younger whiskies, Lochlea has always prioritized consistency. This release exemplifies that commitment just as much as any of their offerings over the years.

Phil Dwyer

Phil Dwyer is a freelance whisky writer and consultant. With a decade of experience in whisky retail and nearly as long running Whisky Wednesday on YouTube, Phil is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow whisky lovers. His goal is to make whisky accessible and enjoyable, dispelling the jargon and complexity that can sometimes surround the spirit. In addition to his online presence, Phil managed The Whisky Shop Manchester, where he curated an impressive selection of some of the finest drams available.

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