A BURNT LIQUORICE STICK – Score: 4/10
The independent bottler Adelphi, based in the county of Fife, has steadily made a name for itself within the niche but discerning world of Scotch whisky enthusiasts. Known for its minimalist labels that intentionally highlight the natural colour of the whisky rather than distract with ornate designs, Adelphi has earned a solid and respectable reputation among connoisseurs.
But Adelphi isn’t just a bottler. It also owns and operates its own distillery—Ardnamurchan—which began production in 2014. Despite its relatively recent establishment, Ardnamurchan is quickly gaining attention for producing Single Malts that resonate with both critics and collectors. Its remote Highland location, commitment to sustainability, and use of both peated and unpeated barley contribute to its growing prestige.
However, tonight we shift our focus from their single malt expressions to one of their lesser-known creations: Loyal Old, a blended whisky that stands out for its unusual composition. This is not your standard blend. What sets Loyal Old apart is its high malt content, an uncommon trait in the world of blended Scotch. The ratio is striking—70% malt whisky made from barley, and only 30% grain whisky made from wheat. This alone might raise the curiosity of any whisky lover looking for a more characterful and malt-forward blend.
Among the malts used, Ardnamurchan naturally plays a role, but it is not the sole contributor. In fact, it’s whispered that this blend includes whiskies from all the main Scotch-producing regions—Islay, Speyside, the Highlands, and possibly even the Lowlands and Campbeltown. On paper, this should result in a rich and complex dram, offering a spectrum of flavours and aromas.
Unfortunately, the reality doesn’t quite live up to the promise. The whisky comes across as disjointed and imbalanced, with a pronounced astringency that overwhelms the palate. Dominant notes include dry wood and harsh liquorice, giving it an almost medicinal sharpness. There is a smoky element present, but it feels superficial—more like an afterthought than an integrated component of the flavour profile. Instead of adding depth, the smoke contributes further confusion to an already muddled expression.
In the end, Loyal Old feels like a missed opportunity—a conceptually bold blend that lacks finesse and cohesion in execution.
