2011 Douglas Laing & Co. Old Particular Single Cask Balmenach 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Unlike relatively light or floral Speysiders, Balmenach uses traditional worm tub condensers and fast distillation in small stills, producing an oily, weighty, meaty new-make that's sought after for blending or independent casks. Aficionados often give the malt high marks, an opinion that coincides with the blended whisky community. This edition from Laing & Co. sees 348 bottles drawn from a refill hogshead. 48.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Buttery pastry, warm croissants alongside dried apricots and polished wood. Palate: A thick, syrupy sweetness mingles with cinnamon and buttered toast. Finish: A charred oak style lingers with caramelised nuts and orchard fruits.