Douglas Laing Launches Strathearn Batch 03

What happens when Scotland's smallest distillery dials up the Sherry influence? Strathearn Batch 03 delivers richer depth—here's how this 31-cask single malt tastes.
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Douglas Laing Launches Strathearn Batch 03
Credit: Douglas Laing & Co.

Independent Scotch whisky specialist Douglas Laing & Co. has unveiled Strathearn Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky Batch 03, the latest small-batch release from one of Scotland’s smallest traditional distilleries. Bottled at 50% ABV, the whisky is available now at select retailers, whisky specialists, and online for a suggested price of £65.

Batch 03 continues the Perthshire distillery’s evolution while placing greater emphasis on Sherry Oak maturation.

The release remains faithful to Strathearn’s signature cask recipe of ex-Bourbon, Virgin Oak, and ex-Sherry Oak casks. The increased Sherry influence adds “further depth and richness to Strathearn’s naturally characterful spirit,” according to the company. Every production shift at Strathearn Distillery continues to produce just a single cask of whisky.

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Batch 03 comprises a vatting of 31 selected casks. These draw upon both inherited stocks and spirit distilled under Douglas Laing’s ownership.

According to the official notes from the brand, the nose offers rich aromas of toasted malt and barley sugar, complemented by dark honey and warming spices. The palate delivers layers of buttery biscuit sweetness, chocolate, and toffee. A long finish of oak, cocoa, and soft leather rounds out the profile.

The release is presented in Strathearn’s distinctive bespoke acorn bottle and premium packaging. It continues the distillery’s philosophy that “From small acorns, great oaks grow.”

Angela Brown, lead distiller at Strathearn, said: “Every batch is an opportunity to better understand and refine Strathearn’s unique spirit. With Batch 03, we’ve carefully increased the influence of our Sherry casks to add further richness and complexity, while ensuring the distillery’s signature creamy character remains at the forefront.”

Brown added: “It’s a whisky that balances tradition with progression, showcasing the quality of our spirit and the thoughtful approach we take to every stage of the maturation process.”

Douglas Laing & Co. acquired Strathearn Distillery in 2019, marking the family-owned firm’s first foray into whisky production. The Glasgow-based company is best known for its blended malt ranges, including Scallywag, Timorous Beastie, and Big Peat.

Mark Littler

Mark Littler is the owner and editor in chief of the Whiskey Wash. He is also the owner of Mark Littler LTD, a prominent whisky and antiques brokerage service in the United Kingdom. Mark is a well known voice in the whisky industry and has a regular column at Forbes.com and has a popular YouTube channel devoted to everything whisky.

Mark completed the purchase of The Whiskey Wash in late 2023.

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