Douglas Laing Scallywag

Overview
Douglas Laing Scallywag is a Speyside blended malt Scotch whisky from the Remarkable Regional Malts series, marrying malts from Mortlach, Macallan, Dailuaine, Inchgower, and Glenrothes distilleries. It embodies the brand's playful approach to regional expressions, highlighted by its whimsical dog-in-a-monocle label.

Specs at a glance

Good to know
Founded in 1948 as an independent bottler, Douglas Laing & Co. created the Remarkable Regional Malts lineup to showcase regional Scotch character, with Scallywag as the Speyside entry alongside siblings like Rock Oyster and Big Peat. The bottle's stylish presentation includes key details, adding to its charming, approachable appeal despite high expectations for depth.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Buttery sweetness mingles with sherry and wet green oak.
• Palate: Dry sherry leads into malty vanilla and orange zest, accented by black pepper, charred oak, freshly cut grass, and an ashy texture.
• Finish: Dry with medium burn, lingering malt notes.

Notable details

• Production: Bottled at 46% ABV without age statement; a pure malt blend emphasizing Speyside character.
• Lineage: Draws from prestigious Speyside distilleries but noted for not standing out among blended malts.
• Availability: MSRP typically $60-$70 for 750ml.

"Scallywag is a fun and charming blended malt but falls short of expectations due to its unevenness and limited depth." – The Whiskey Wash

Closing
A whimsical Speyside blend that charms with playfulness, best for casual sipping rather than profound complexity.

Sources

[1] Thewhiskeywash – "Douglas Laing Scallywag Whisky Review: Tasting Notes & Expert Analysis"

[2] Thewhiskeywash – "Douglas Laing Scallywag Whisky Review: Tasting Notes & Expert Analysis"

[3] Thewhiskeywash – "Scallywag Speyside Blended Scotch Review from the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition"

[4] Thewhiskeywash – "Every Award-Winning Scotch Whisky From The New York World Spirits Competition 2025"

[5] Thewhiskeywash – "Every Award-Winning Blended Scotch From The 2025 New York World Spirits Competition"