Big Peat, Scallywag From Douglas Laing Reveal Holiday Editions

Independent Scotch whisky bottler Douglas Laing & Co. recently introduced two new seasonal bottlings within their Islay and Speyside malt Scotch whisky brands: Big Peat Christmas Edition and Scallywag Winter Edition.

These special bottlings, according to those behind them, are offered without coloring or chill-filtration and are both bottled at a natural cask strength, with Big Peat Christmas at 54.2% and Scallywag Winter at 54% alcohol.

A marriage of single cask single malts exclusively from Islay, Big Peat’s limited edition is said to be “bursting with burnt caramel, wafts of Hebridean sea air and rich earthy notes, balanced by a toasted marshmallow sweetness.” Big Peat Christmas Edition is packaged in a gift tube with gloss-varnished details and carries a bespoke illustration depicting the iconic bearded fisherman with his head stuck in a Christmas wreath.

Independent Scotch whisky bottler Douglas Laing & Co. recently introduced two new seasonal bottlings within their Islay and Speyside malt Scotch whisky brands: Big Peat Christmas Edition and Scallywag Winter Edition. (image via Douglas Laing)

The candy-striped red and white bottle capsule that has become synonymous with the festive release completes the gifting offering.

Strictly limited to 5,400 bottles, Scallywag’s 100% sherry cask matured bottling is the third annual winter expression. This limited release has been matured exclusively in a combination of Speyside Oloroso and Pedro Ximinéz Sherry butts. Each single cask single malt, it is said, was hand-selected by the Douglas Laing family for its “rich and full-bodied flavours that complement the season,” resulting in a spirit that is described as “spectacularly spicy with hints of cinnamon and ginger, alongside sweet, indulgent dark chocolate.”

“We’re delighted to unveil this year’s festive releases for two of our biggest brands, Big Peat and Scallywag,” said Brand Manager, Rebecca Fennell, in a prepared statement. “As a company, we are incredibly proud to see these editions become highly anticipated within the Whisky world and they have become something we look forward to every year.

“Both offered at a Natural Cask Strength and bursting with flavour, these drams are the ultimate warmers for the inevitable dark and crisp winter nights ahead.”

Big Peat Christmas and Scallywag Winter Editions are both available now, and can be purchased from specialist retailers in markets globally, including Europe, America and Asia. Both expressions retail at £57.50 / €68.50.