Douglas Laing & Co Xop Black Garnheath 49 Year Old 1974

XOP Black Garnheath 49 Year Old 1974 is an exceptionally rare Lowland Single Grain Scotch Whisky from the closed Garnheath Distillery, independently bottled by Douglas Laing & Co. for its premium Xtra Old Particular Black series. Distilled in February 1974 and bottled in February 2023 after 49 years of maturation, this single-cask release was drawn from refill barrel DL17171 and bottled at approximately 45% ABV without added colouring or chill filtration.

Food Pairing: Crème brûlée, caramel popcorn, buttery shortbread, orange-dark chocolate, roasted almonds or an apple and cinnamon tart.

Tasting Notes: An elegant, long-aged grain whisky combining citrus, confectionery sweetness and warming spice with the polished oak character of extended maturation.

Nose: Mature spiced oak opens into fresh lemon peel and fragrant orange blossom.

Palate: Sweet toffee popcorn and candy floss are balanced by nutmeg, citrus zest and gently seasoned oak.

Finish: Lingering and sweet, with candied orange, crème brûlée and mature oak continuing through the finish.

Serve: Best enjoyed neat at room temperature to appreciate its mature single-cask character; a few drops of water may be added if desired.