Old Particular – Tamdhu 20 Year Old (Virgin Oak), 70cl
Brand: Douglas Laing | Category: Speyside Single Malt Scotch | ABV: 51.5% (natural cask strength, may vary by cask) | Origin: Speyside, Scotland | Vol: 70cl
Cask Type: Virgin Oak Cask | Age Statement: 20 Years | Edition: Old Particular Series

Intro/Heritage:
A rare twist on a Speyside classic. This 20-year-old single cask Tamdhu, bottled under Douglas Laing’s Old Particular label, was fully matured in virgin oak, an unconventional choice that delivers bold structure, rich spice, and a remarkable departure from the distillery’s usual sherry-led style. This is Tamdhu turned up, confident, complex, and deeply expressive.

Tasting Profile:
Nose: Vibrant and toasty. Waves of vanilla pod, toasted coconut, golden syrup, and cinnamon bark rise over polished oak and warm spice.
Palate: Full-bodied and bold. Caramelized pear, crème brûlée, clove, and nutmeg unfold over a foundation of sweet malt and freshly sawn oak.
Finish: Long, warming, and oaky. A lingering trail of sweet spice, roasted nuts, and creamy vanilla fades into gentle tannin and elegant dryness.

Production Details:
Matured for 20 years in a single virgin oak cask, a rarity in Scotch whisky and bottled at natural cask strength with no chill filtration or added coloring. This expression showcases the cask-driven artistry of Douglas Laing’s Old Particular range, where single malts are bottled in their purest, most expressive form.

Perfect For:
Fans of oak-forward single malts or collectors of rare cask maturations. Perfect for contemplative sipping, special occasions, or pairing with bold flavors like charcuterie, roasted meats, or spiced desserts.

Expert Notes:
Virgin oak brings a distinct intensity and richness to this already elegant Speyside malt, adding complexity without overwhelming the spirit. A fascinating, luxurious dram that bridges classic Speyside smoothness with bourbon-like depth.

Customer Reviews:
🗨️ “Spice, oak, and sweetness in perfect balance. A masterclass in cask influence.”
🗨️ “So different from typical Tamdhu — bolder, richer, and deeply satisfying.”
🗨️ “One of the most unique 20-year-olds I’ve tried. Big personality, beautiful finish.”

Interesting Fact:
Virgin oak casks are rarely used for full-term maturation in Scotch whisky due to their powerful flavor profile. This bottling proves that, when done right, the result is unforgettable.

Serving Suggestions:
Best enjoyed neat in a wide-bowled glass to explore the spice and oak layers. A few drops of water soften the tannins and reveal creamy vanilla and orchard fruit. Pair with dark chocolate, pecan tart, or fire-side conversation.

Distillery Background:
Tamdhu, located along the River Spey, is famed for its sherry-cask tradition — but this independent bottling shows a daring side rarely seen. Through Douglas Laing’s lens, we discover a Speyside single malt redefined by wood, matured with intention, and bottled with integrity.