Arran The Explorer Series Lochranza Castle 21 Years Old 47.2% NV

Professional reviews

Whisky Notes (87)

Nose: good, fairly dry and spicy nose which shows caraway seeds, eucalyptus and ginger. Also a little damp earth, dusty cellar and sandalwood. Light vanilla and almonds in the background. Mouth: apples, hints of pineapple and raisins, but still mostly on oak spice (ginger, cinnamon, all-spice) with a herbaceous edge. Plain malty notes, a little salted caramel and marmalade bitterness. Finish: quite long, on herbal tea, a little tobacco and wood spice.

Really good, autumnal whisky, with a lot of wood character (fine now but at this rate I’m not particularly looking forward to a 30 year-old). It was popular with collectors

BOW (90)

Highland Classic in Every Sense.

A whisky that exemplifies the Highland character with a profile that doesn't shout but whispers in intricate, intimate tones. This is a dram for those who relish nuance over noise, where every layer reveals itself with elegance and deliberation. Balance, integrity, and self-assurance define its personality.

Nose
Opens with a delicate interplay of dry, woody whispers and sweet caramel allure. The bouquet is further lifted by candied citrus, floral honey, and a zesty spark of lemon. There’s a comforting embrace of leather goods and shortbread, punctuated by subtle mineral notes and a surprising flash of fried vegetables.

Taste
Soft, rounded, and effortlessly rich. Spicy wood notes entwine with a gentle astringency, peppery heat, and a creamy sweetness. The interplay of leather, caramel, and bark spices is underscored by hints of ginger and mint, creating a palate that evolves with every sip.

Finish
A refreshingly spicy conclusion with echoes of oak, grapefruit rind, and creamy confectionery. Oily undertones linger alongside pipe tobacco, leaving a smoky-sweet afterglow.

A true study in restraint and complexity, this whisky rewards the patient enthusiast with every nuanced sip.