Littlemill 1988 26 years old McCrae's - John McCrae & Co. Ltd. - b. 2015 - 70cl

Littlemill 1988 – 26 Years Old (McCrae’s – Bottled 2015) – 56.5%

The Littlemill 1988 26 Years Old from McCrae’s is a rare and highly collectible Lowland single malt from one of Scotland’s legendary lost distilleries. Littlemill closed permanently in 1994 and the remaining stocks have become increasingly sought after by collectors. This expression was distilled in 1988, matured for 26 years, and released in a very limited batch of only 150 bottles at cask strength (56.5%).

A whisky like this is not only about flavour, but also about history: it represents a piece of old Lowland whisky craftsmanship that can no longer be recreated.

Nose

Elegant, refined, and surprisingly vibrant for its age. The first impression is a beautiful combination of fresh citrus, lemon zest, and green orchard fruits, followed by fresh-cut grass and floral notes.

With time in the glass, deeper layers appear: honey, vanilla, white chocolate, and soft stewed fruits. There is a gentle waxy and creamy character underneath, giving it a mature and sophisticated feel.

The high ABV brings intensity but does not overpower the delicate Lowland character.

Palate

Complex and beautifully balanced. The arrival brings sweet malt, lemon, honey, and soft vanilla, followed by dried fruits and subtle cereal notes.

The long maturation adds depth through flavours of white chocolate, soft oak, almond, and gentle spice. Unlike heavier Highland or sherried whiskies, this remains elegant and refined, with a focus on purity and texture.

The mouthfeel is smooth and slightly oily, with a lovely combination of freshness and maturity.

Finish

Long and elegant. The whisky fades slowly through crystallised vanilla, citrus peel, soft oak, and gentle sweetness.

A delicate floral and waxy note remains, leaving a refined and memorable impression.

Conclusion

The Littlemill 1988 26 Years Old McCrae’s is a beautiful example of mature Lowland whisky, combining freshness, elegance, and complexity. It does not rely on heavy sherry or aggressive oak; instead, it showcases the purity of the old Littlemill spirit.

This is a bottle for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate lost distilleries, rarity, and subtle complexity. Comparable Littlemill 26-year-old releases are now frequently traded at significant collector values due to the closure of the distillery and limited availability.

Ideal for those who enjoy:

Rare closed-distillery single malts
Elegant, mature Lowland whisky
Citrus, vanilla, floral and delicate fruit profiles
Collectible bottles with historical significance

Score (indicative): 91–93/100