Croftengea 2016/2026 - 10 Year Old - 1st Fill Calvados Barrique k #2/2016 - Cask Masters - Brave New Spirits

Profile: The Croftengea 2016/2026 - 10 Years - 1st Fill Calvados Barrique k #2/2016 - Cask Masters - Brave New Spirits at a glance

• Highland character: This single malt comes from Scotland and showcases the smoky, distinctive side of the Loch Lomond distillery.
• A fruit-driven cask: Maturation in a 1st Fill Calvados Barrique adds a delicate apple note that lends the whisky freshness and complexity.
• Unadorned presentation: Bottled without colouring and at 52.10% ABV, it is offered in an authentic, full-flavoured form.
• Limited release: As a Brave New Spirits bottling in the Cask Masters series, this whisky is aimed at lovers of characterful single cask expressions.

Portrait: What defines the Croftengea 2016/2026 - 10 Years - 1st Fill Calvados Barrique k #2/2016 - Cask Masters - Brave New Spirits

Within the Loch Lomond range, Croftengea stands for a distinctly smoky style. In this ten-year-old release, that character meets a cask that adds a clear extra dimension: the 1st Fill Calvados Barrique contributes a subtle fruitiness reminiscent of freshly cut apples, without masking the whisky’s natural smoke.

That balance is what makes this bottling appealing. It is not overly loud, but carefully composed: mineral, spicy, slightly dry, and at the same time accompanied by a finely integrated sweetness. The result is a single malt that reflects both its Highland roots and the influence of French apple brandy in a very direct way.

Brave New Spirits uses the Cask Masters range to highlight casks with a personality of their own. This release will therefore appeal especially to drinkers looking for a whisky with clear individuality, where spirit and cask speak with equal force. At 52.10% ABV, it remains powerful enough to unfold its layered aromas with clarity.

Tasting Notes: How the Croftengea 2016/2026 - 10 Years - 1st Fill Calvados Barrique k #2/2016 - Cask Masters - Brave New Spirits tastes

• Nose: Smoky notes meet green apple, citrus peel and a gentle malty sweetness. Fine oak tones and a touch of spice add depth.
• Palate: The palate brings together fresh apple fruit, bright citrus and creamy caramel. Smoke remains present and gives the whisky structure and length.
• Finish: The finish is dry, spicy and pleasantly long. Apple, light oak and a smoky aftertaste linger for a while.