One of Scotland’s smallest traditional distilleries goes sherry‐forward for Batch 3

Wednesday, 29 July 2026 at 08:56

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Douglas Laing & Co. introduces Strathearn Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky Batch 03, a new small-batch release from one of Scotland’s smallest traditional distilleries.

For this third batch, Douglas Laing stays true to the signature trio of ex-bourbon casks, virgin oak, and ex-sherry casks. But there’s one major shift from the first two editions: Batch 03 leans more heavily into sherry cask maturation.

Strathearn Batch 03 composed from 31 casks

For Strathearn Batch 03, a total of 31 carefully selected casks were married. Part of the whisky comes from the existing inventory Douglas Laing acquired with the purchase of the Strathearn Distillery. The remainder is spirit distilled by Douglas Laing post-acquisition and matured into whisky.

With this third batch, Douglas Laing set out to preserve Strathearn’s hallmark creamy style while layering in more sherry wood influence. A larger share of the whisky therefore matured in sherry casks. The result is a creamier dram with a touch more sweetness and spice.

Tasting notes for Strathearn Batch 03 whisky

The heightened role of sherry casks clearly shines through in the tasting notes. Here’s what to expect:

Nose: Toasted malt, barley sugar, and dark honey, lifted by warming spices.
Palate: Creamy, sweet layers of butter biscuits, chocolate, and toffee.
Finish: Long and layered with oak, cacao, and supple leather.

Strathearn Highland Single Malt Batch 03 is bottled at 50% alcohol by volume (ABV).

An acorn for the journey

The bottle takes on the distinctive shape of an acorn and comes in a luxury presentation. The design nods to the distillery’s philosophy: from small acorns, mighty oaks grow. A fitting sentiment for this Highland distillery.

Strathearn Distillery is renowned for its small-scale, artisanal, and traditional approach. Each production shift yields just enough spirit to fill a single cask—no more. The focus is on crafting a rich, creamy Highland Single Malt where tradition meets innovation.

Where to buy the new Strathearn whisky

Strathearn Batch 03 is available at selected liquor stores, specialist whisky retailers, and online shops. The recommended retail price is £65, which equates to roughly 75 euros.

Those mountains do carry a phoenix tale. According to local lore, the mythical bird brought tea to the region during the Song dynasty. That story explains the range’s name, but the whisky name points chiefly to the tea’s geographic home.

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FAQ

What is Strathearn Batch 03?
Strathearn Batch 03 is a Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky from Douglas Laing & Co. The whisky is composed from 31 selected ex-bourbon, virgin oak, and ex-sherry casks.
What sets Batch 03 apart from earlier releases?
Batch 03 places greater emphasis on sherry cask maturation, adding depth and richer notes of dark honey, chocolate, toffee, spice, and oak.
How strong is Strathearn Batch 03?
The whisky is bottled at 50% ABV.