Whisky Focus - Loch Lomond The Open 2025 Editions

Innovative distiller and proud partner of The Open, Loch Lomond Whiskies has launched two exclusive single malts in celebration of golf’s original championship.

Loch Lomond The Open Course Collection 2025 (RRP £250; 46.7% ABV) and Loch Lomond The Open Special Edition 2025 (RRP £45; 46% ABV) – two releases that honour the rich legacy of The Open and the enduring partnership between the tournament and Loch Lomond Whiskies. Each expression is said to pays tribute to the iconic courses, legendary players, and timeless stories that have shaped this historic major.

Crafted by Loch Lomond's award-winning Master Blender Michael Henry, The Open Course Collection 2025 is a masterful 22 Year Old single malt. Initially matured in American oak barrels and hogsheads, it is then finished in carefully chosen first-fill Spanish oak casks—a respectful nod to the Spanish Armada ship La Girona, which famously sank off the coast of Royal Portrush in 1588. Distilled using Loch Lomond’s signature straight-neck stills—the only of their kind in Scotch whisky production—this expression is said to deliver a layered profile with notes of cinnamon, spice, and the distillery’s hallmark fruit, honey, and soft smoke.

Loch Lomond The Open Special Edition 2025 explores a different path, showcasing the influence of Tuscan Chianti wine casks on Loch Lomond’s distinctive style. Also distilled using the straight-neck stills, this whisky was initially matured in American oak before being finished for eight months in select first-fill Chianti casks. The result is said to be a vibrant and complex single malt, enriched with deep, ripe flavours.

Both expressions were created in collaboration with Scottish golfing great and Loch Lomond Whiskies ambassador, Colin Montgomerie, whose signature graces each bottle.

Michael Henry, master blender of Loch Lomond Group said: "These expressions perfectly capture Loch Lomond’s explorative and innovative spirit.

"The final character of each of these fine single malts are unmistakenly Loch Lomond, and the experimentation with Spanish oak and chianti casks is indicative of our capability to push the boundaries in flavour creation."

Loch Lomond Whiskies ambassador Colin Montgomerie said: "It’s been a pleasure working with Michael once again to create these popular limited-edition expressions which mark another special moment in golf history.

"There is a lot of synergy between golf and the art of whisky making. Both require dedication to the craft, passion and a willingness to take risks, which Loch Lomond Whiskies do so well.

"The ongoing releases of new limited-edition whiskies celebrates the legacy of The Open in such a wonderful way, and it has been a joy to be a part of the experience once again."

Henry Keeling, Director – Commercial Partnerships at The R&A said: "We are proud to continue our valued relationship with Loch Lomond Group across The Open and the AIG Women’s Open. Aligning with partners who share our vision for the championships and for golf to thrive is integral to our success."

Both limited-edition single malts are non-chill filtered and retain their natural colour, preserving the whisky just as nature intended. For an added touch, The Open Special Edition 2025 is also available as a gift pack, featuring co-branded Loch Lomond Whiskies and The Open glasses, priced at £50.

Both the Loch Lomond The Open Course Collection 2025 and The Open Course Special Edition 2025 will be available from specialist online whisky shops such as The Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt
 

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