Royal Lochnagar is a historic Highland distillery established in 1845 on the Abergeldie Estate near Balmoral Castle in Royal Deeside, Scotland. Its most defining moment came just three years after its founding, in 1848, when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert paid a visit and took part in a tasting. Impressed by what they sampled, they granted distillery owner John Begg a Royal Warrant, and the distillery was renamed from New Lochnagar to Royal Lochnagar — a distinction it proudly bears to this day. In 1916, the distillery was acquired by John Dewar & Sons, and it underwent a complete renovation in 1963. Royal Lochnagar is the smallest distillery in Diageo's extensive portfolio of 29 distilleries, with an annual output of around 450,000 litres. Despite its modest size, it holds a special place within Diageo's collection and is part of the prestigious Classic Malts Selection. The whisky is known for its rich, full-bodied Highland character, and a significant portion of its production goes into blends, though its single malt expressions have earned a devoted following among connoisseurs. The distillery's royal heritage and intimate scale make Royal Lochnagar one of Scotland's most storied and distinctive producers. Releases such as the Royal Lochnagar 30 Year Old Single Cask demonstrate the depth and craftsmanship that can emerge from this small but remarkable Highland distillery.