Littlemill 2017 Private Cellar Edition Drops at Nearly $3,000

The Littlemill distillery in Scotland was once one of the oldest whisky making operations in that part of the world. It began producing whisky legally in 1772, was shuttered in 1994, and was then (sadly) completely destroyed by fire in 2004. Some of the single malt made there was saved, however, and the Loch Lomond Group has their hands on some of it that is now being brought to market as a collectible offering priced at £2,250 (around $3,000 USD).

The Littlemill 2017 Private Cellar Edition, according to those behind it, is the second in the series celebrating this rare Lowland whisky. It consists of 500 individually numbered, limited edition bottles encasing the 27-year-old expression. Each decanter rests in a special case which also includes a piece of Littlemill cask used to mature this malt, as well as a miniature of the whisky itself.

Information from Loch Lomond indicates this whisky came from casks holding distillations done between 11th and 19th May, 1990. The casks were filled at 68.8% strength, allowing them to retain more of the distillery character throughout the maturation in refill bourbon barrels. Once selected the casks were married in fresh bourbon barrels for 12 months before bottling.

“It’s a tragedy that the distillery fell silent and was later destroyed by fire, committing Littlemill to legend,” said Loch Lomond Master Blender Michael Henry in a prepared statement. “Once the last precious drops are consumed, an important part of Scotland’s and Scotch whisky’s heritage will be lost forever. A sip of Littlemill 2017 Private Cellar Edition is more than just a memorable pleasure; it is a unique and historic experience and the spirit of the distillery and its innovative stills live on at the Loch Lomond Distillery today.”

Official tasting notes for this Littlemill indicate the following:

• Nose – Green herbal notes of peppermint and eucalyptus lead into natural perfumed floral bursts of honeysuckle and lavender. Cedar wood elements give structure.
• Taste – Vibrant fruit is prominent with a background soft, subtle sweet character. Mouth-watering crisp green apple, zesty grapefruit and tart juicy pineapple are followed by green tea notes and a delicate clover honey sweetness.
• Finish – Warming spice of stem ginger and nutmeg liven the tongue before a long peppermint and sugar syrup finish.