In the heart of Perthshire lies a hidden gem among Scotland's legendary whisky producers — Strathearn Distillery. Nestled just 10 miles west of Perth, this distillery has quietly honed its craft since its establishment in 2013, embodying the essence of small-batch, handcrafted whisky production. Now, under the stewardship of Glasgow-based independent bottler Douglas Laing & Co, Strathearn steps into the spotlight with its inaugural single malt release, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
The acquisition of Strathearn by Douglas Laing in 2019 was a serendipitous union, born out of mutual admiration for the distillery's ethos and dedication to quality. Managing Director Cara Laing recalls the fortuitous turn of events, noting that what began as a chance visit evolved into a profound appreciation for the distillery's approach to whisky making. With the addition of Angela Brown, a talented distiller with a passion for the craft, Douglas Laing embarked on a mission to elevate Strathearn's legacy to new heights.
Under Douglas Laing's guidance, significant investments were made to enhance the distillery's capabilities while staying true to its artisanal roots. Upgrades such as a new boiler, enclosed mash tun, and additional fermenters were implemented to increase efficiency and double production capacity. However, amidst these advancements, the spirit of tradition remained unyielding, with the original 1,000-litre Hoga stills standing as a testament to the distillery's heritage.
Central to the ethos of Strathearn is its commitment to quality ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship. Maris Otter malted barley, renowned for its creamy texture and rich flavor profile, serves as the cornerstone of its whisky. Combined with 144-hour fermentations, this approach yields a remarkably fruity spirit that sets Strathearn apart in the world of whisky.
The culmination of years of dedication and passion, the Douglas Laing Strathearn Single Highland Malt Inaugural Release embodies the essence of the distillery's journey. Crafted from a blend of ex-bourbon, new oak, and sherry casks, this expression offers a symphony of flavors and aromas. Notes of American cream soda, soft caramel, and spicy orchard fruits greet the nose, while the palate delights with hints of honey, orange marmalade, and sultanas, followed by a lingering finish of dark chocolate and black pepper.
With only 1,700 six-bottle cases available globally, each bottle represents a testament to the artistry and dedication of the Strathearn team. Priced at £85, this limited-edition release is a treasure for whisky enthusiasts seeking a taste of Scotland's rich heritage.
Looking ahead, Cara Laing envisions a future filled with innovation and exploration, with plans to develop a core range of Strathearn whiskies that showcase the distillery's unique character. As the journey continues, each sip of Strathearn whisky invites connoisseurs to embark on a sensory adventure, where tradition meets innovation in every glass.
About Douglas Laing
Douglas Laing is a family-owned independent Scotch whisky blender and bottler based in Glasgow, Scotland, with a history dating back to 1948. Founded by Fred Douglas Laing, the company has earned a reputation for its commitment to quality, authenticity, and innovation in the world of whisky. Douglas Laing specializes in selecting and blending exceptional single malt and single grain whiskies from distilleries across Scotland, each chosen for its distinctive character and flavor profile.
One of Douglas Laing's signature ranges is the Remarkable Regional Malts series, which showcases the unique characteristics of Scotland's whisky-producing regions. Brands like Big Peat (representing Islay), Timorous Beastie (representing the Highlands), and Scallywag (representing Speyside) offer whisky enthusiasts a journey through Scotland's diverse whisky landscape. Additionally, Douglas Laing produces limited-edition releases, single cask bottlings, and other innovative expressions that appeal to whisky connoisseurs and collectors.
What sets Douglas Laing apart is its commitment to traditional blending techniques and its hands-on approach to whisky production. The company's skilled blenders meticulously select and marry whiskies to create well-balanced and flavorful blends that highlight the best characteristics of each component. Furthermore, Douglas Laing maintains a strict policy of non-chill filtration and natural color, ensuring that its whiskies retain maximum flavor and authenticity.
In addition to whisky, Douglas Laing also offers other spirits, including rum and gin, under its Remarkable Drinks umbrella. The company continues to be family-owned and operated, with Fred Laing's daughter, Cara Laing, serving as the current director of whisky. With its dedication to quality, innovation, and tradition, Douglas Laing remains a respected and influential player in the world of Scotch whisky, beloved by enthusiasts for its remarkable blends and commitment to excellence.
