For the First Time, This Whisky Packs a Bit of Peat

Wednesday, 05 November 2025 at 12:01Douglas Laing

Douglas Laing surprises with a brand-new Timorous Beastie whisky. This time, the mouse-fronted malt gets a bold new twist. The sweet Highland style suddenly meets a heavy char and a dose of smoke. What does that do to the flavor?

FAQ

What is Douglas Laing?
An independent bottler and whisky maker from Scotland.
What kind of whisky is Timorous Beastie?
A blended whisky made from Highland single malts.
Where is Douglas Laing based?
In Glasgow, Scotland.

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Douglas Laing breaks new ground with the Timorous Beastie Phantom Smoke. For the first time, this Highland malt has been peated. While it remains a blend of various Highland whiskies, its maturation sets it apart from the rest.

Not only has it been aged longer, but it matured in so-called Crocodile Casks. These barrels take their name from the heavy charring inside—charred so deeply that the wood’s pattern resembles crocodile skin.

Alongside the heavily charred casks, a peated whisky has been used to lend a subtle veil of smoke. Scott Morrison, Senior Brand Manager at Douglas Laing, says this bold move shows a different side to the beloved little mouse.

“Combined with the dramatic influence of Crocodile Casks, it offers a completely new flavor journey for our Highland malt, while preserving the sweet charm our Timorous Beastie fans adore.”

- Scott Morrison

What are the tasting notes of Timorous Beastie Phantom Smoke?

This independent bottling comes with a layered flavor profile, described as smoldering peat, singed spices, and charred oak.

That distinctive character is balanced by classic Highland sweetness and finishes with a long, satisfying aftertaste.

Timorous Beastie Phantom Smoke is bottled at 54.2 percent alcohol by volume (ABV).

Where can you buy Timorous Beastie Phantom Smoke?

Douglas Laing’s new Highland whisky is a very limited release—only 3,000 bottles worldwide. You can find it, among other places, on Douglas Laing’s website for £60 per bottle (approximately €78).