Croftengea (Loch Lomond), Murray McDavid – Port & Madeira Finish, 44.5%

Introduction

Croftengea is the heavily peated expression from Loch Lomond distillery, rarely seen as an official bottling and highly sought after by whisky connoisseurs. This particular expression, expertly curated by independent bottler Murray McDavid, undergoes an innovative dual cask finish that elevates its character to new heights.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish malted barley with high peat levels, characteristic of the Croftengea style produced at Loch Lomond distillery
• Distillation process: Distilled in Loch Lomond’s unique straight-necked pot stills, which allow for greater copper contact and a distinctively clean yet complex spirit
• Maturation: Initially matured in traditional oak casks before being transferred to a combination of Portuguese Port and Madeira wine casks for its finishing period
• Special techniques: Murray McDavid’s signature “ACE” (Additional Cask Enhancement) method, carefully monitoring the dual wine cask finish to achieve perfect balance without overpowering the whisky’s intrinsic character

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich peat smoke intertwined with dark berry fruits, fig jam, caramelized orange peel, and subtle maritime saltiness
• Palate: Velvety texture carrying waves of sweet peat, ripe plums, toasted oak, dark chocolate, and spiced honey with vinous red fruit influences from the Port and notes of nuts and citrus from the Madeira
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering smoky sweetness, dried fruits, and a pleasant peppery spice that slowly fades, leaving traces of sea salt and wine-infused oak

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: 18-20°C (64-68°F)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the complex aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to open up the layers of flavor; allow to breathe for 5-10 minutes before tasting
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with sea salt, blue cheese, smoked salmon, or fig and date desserts that complement the whisky’s sweet and smoky profile

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 44.5% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Highland region (Loch Lomond distillery)
• Certifications/Awards: Murray McDavid is recognized for their expertise in cask selection and innovative finishing techniques

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Croftengea represents a rare opportunity to experience the heavily peated character of Loch Lomond through the artisanal lens of Murray McDavid’s expertise in cask finishing.

With limited releases of Croftengea available on the market, especially those with such distinctive wine cask finishes, this bottle represents a scarce addition to any collection.

Both Loch Lomond’s master distillers and Murray McDavid’s blending team have established themselves as authorities in creating innovative yet balanced expressions that respect traditional whisky-making.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Peated whisky enthusiasts worldwide have embraced Murray McDavid’s approach to Croftengea, appreciating how the wine cask finishing adds complexity without compromising the spirit’s essential character.

Collectors who commit to exploring independent bottlings consistently recognize the value of unique expressions like this Port and Madeira finished Croftengea.

The appreciation for this style of whisky continues to grow, with experts noting how the dual wine cask finish creates a harmonious balance between smoke, sweetness, and fruitiness rarely found in standard bottlings.

From Loch Lomond to You

When you choose this Murray McDavid bottling, you’re receiving not just a whisky but generations of Scottish distilling heritage combined with innovative cask management expertise.

The approachable yet complex character of this whisky makes it appealing to both newcomers to peated expressions and seasoned whisky aficionados seeking new flavor experiences.

By sharing this bottle, you join a community of discerning whisky enthusiasts who value craftsmanship and bold flavor profiles – discover why this Croftengea expression deserves a special place in your collection today.