By now we all now about the Remarkable Regional Malts from Douglas Laing, right? You should, at least if you’re a regular reader of Words of Whisky. There’s six different brands, one for each of the Scottish whisky regions, and an extra one specifically for the Scottish islands (excluding Islay of course).
This series has been around for years, and has been exceptionally successful. But with this year being the 70th Anniversary of Douglas Laing, they came up with something new. The Remarkable Regional Malts With A Twist encompasses single malts from all of Scotland’s whisky producing regions. The gift tube panels rotates, enabling Big Peat’s bearded face to sit on top of other iconic Douglas Laing characters. A total of 5,000 bottles have been produced.
Remarkable Regional Malts With A Twist (48%, OB, 2018)
Nose: A subtle coastalness—is that a word?—with whiffs of peat from Big Peat and Rock Oyster, light floral and citrus notes from The Epicurean, sweeter Timorous Beastie influence with a slight farminess, and a minerality associated with The Gauldrons.
Taste: Sweet (vanilla and sugary cereals), a tad dry and with a proper spicy arrival. Think cracked black peppercorns and cloves, as well as some oak. There’s a whisper of peat and smoke.
Finish: Somewhat salty, more spices, and a lingering nuttiness.
Score: 85
True to its promise, this really does have some of almost all their Remarkable Regional Malts. The spices are a bit too dominant on the palate, but otherwise a lovely dram.
Sample provided by Douglas Laing