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Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5%

Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5%

Scotland Single Malt Scotch Score: 8.4/10

Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5% is a well-regarded Single Malt Scotch whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.4/10, it features distinctive notes of Almond, Apple, Cinnamon. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking single malt scotch expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

Douglas Laing’s Old & Rare collection features exceptional cask selections, and this 20-year-old Littlemill, bottled at 51.5% ABV, is a fine example of their dedication to high-quality whisky. Littlemill, one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, was closed in 1992, making expressions like this a rare treat for whisky enthusiasts. This whisky has spent two decades maturing in oak casks, allowing it to develop complexity and depth while retaining the soft, elegant character that Littlemill is known for. At 51.5% ABV, it delivers a robust and expressive experience while maintaining balance and refinement.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose of Douglas Laing Old & Rare Littlemill 20 Year Old is inviting and well-rounded. It opens with a delicate sweetness of honeycomb, vanilla, and soft toffee, intertwined with fruity notes of ripe pear, green apple, and a touch of citrus zest. A floral undertone, reminiscent of heather and wildflowers, adds an elegant, fresh quality. As the whisky breathes, subtle oak aromas emerge, with hints of toasted wood and light spice. There’s a faint whiff of almonds and marzipan, contributing a nutty, creamy element to the nose. Overall, the nose is smooth, rich, and layered, with an excellent balance of sweetness, fruit, and oak.
TASTE: On the palate, this Littlemill 20 Year Old is soft yet full-bodied. The initial sweetness of honey and vanilla flows into the fruity notes of pear and green apple, which are complemented by a light, fresh citrus zing. The oak influence becomes more pronounced as the whisky develops, with subtle flavors of toasted wood, a touch of spice (cinnamon and nutmeg), and a gentle nuttiness, like almond paste. The whisky retains an underlying creaminess, which adds to its smooth mouthfeel. There’s a faint herbal quality, adding depth and complexity to the palate, and a slight dryness that balances the initial sweetness, keeping the whisky from becoming too rich.
FINISH: The finish of Douglas Laing Old & Rare Littlemill 20 Year Old is medium to long, smooth, and satisfying. The sweetness of honey and vanilla lingers gently, while the oak and spice notes fade gradually, leaving behind a light dryness and a trace of almonds and marzipan. A soft, floral note remains as the finish winds down, with a lingering warmth from the higher ABV that gives it a slightly peppery, yet refined, conclusion. The finish is balanced, with a perfect blend of sweetness, fruit, oak, and spice, leaving a pleasant and lingering aftertaste that invites another sip.

Flavor Profile

Almond Apple Cinnamon Heather Honey Nutmeg Oak Pear Pepper Toast Toffee Vanilla Zest

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Frequently Asked Questions About Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5%

What type of whiskey is Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5%?

Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5% is a Single Malt Scotch whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5%?

For the best tasting experience, pour Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5% into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5%?

Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5% pairs excellently with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, nuts, and dried fruits. Experiment to find your perfect pairing!

What are the main flavor notes in Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5%?

The flavor profile of Douglas Laing Old & Rare (distilled at Littlemill) 20 year old, 51.5% features Almond, Apple, Cinnamon, Heather, Honey. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that appeals to a wide range of whiskey lovers.