Loch Lomond unveils 2026 Open whiskies

Scotch whisky producer Loch Lomond has created two single malts to honour the 154th Open golf championship in July.

Loch Lomond is in its ninth year as a partner for The Open and each year releases two limited edition bottlings to mark the golf major. For the upcoming 154th Open, held at Royal Birkdale in Southport from 12-19 July, the brand has created The Open Course Collection 2026 and The Open Course Special Edition 2026. Both were produced under Loch Lomond master blender Michael Henry, who said: “Royal Birkdale holds a special place in the history of The Open. As one of the purest tests of links golf, it has provided the stage for some of the championship’s greatest moments. “Through these new expressions, we have sought to explore the spirit of the course, the players and the craft that defines this historic venue. “Each whisky is unmistakably Loch Lomond in character, showcasing our ability to create depth, balance and complexity while remaining true to our house style.” The Open Course Collection 2026 is a 19-year-old whisky that was matured in American oak and finished for six months in Tawny Port casks. The 46.9% ABV whisky has toasted oak, apple and vanilla on the nose, and toffee, pineapple, lemon and cinnamon spice on the palate. Its profile also includes layers of red berries and dried fruits from the Port casks. The Open Special Edition 2026 was created in collaboration with Scottish golfer Colin Montgomerie. It was matured initially in American oak and finished for six months in Argentinian Malbec casks. The liquid, which is bottled at 46% ABV, features the distillery’s signature fruit, honey and soft smoke, as well as notes of richer dark berries, red fruits and gentle spice from the Malbec casks. The Open Course Collection 2026 retails for £195 (US$264), while The Open Course Special Edition 2026 is priced at £45 (US$60). They are available from Loch Lomond’s website, as well as Master of Malt, The Whisky Shop, The Whisky Exchange and Royal Mile Whiskies. Both bottles are also presented in packs from Bucket List Prints, which are inspired by vintage travel posters. The designs evoke both the ‘spirit of The Open’ and character of links golf on England’s north-west coast. The Open Course Collection’s pack also pays tribute to the championship by featuring the date, venue and winner of every Open. Loch Lomond Group's gin brand, Ben Lomond, has also recently started its search for the official serve of The Open. The brand is the championship’s official gin.