Scallywag The Chocolate Edition 2023

Volume: 700ml / ABV: 48%

Did you know it's possible for a whisky maker to create a dram that tastes like chocolate? Without flavouring, we mean. That's what Douglas Laing does every year with The Chocolate Edition, selecting certain Speyside single malt Scotch whiskies aged in Pedro Ximénez and oloroso sherry casks to ramp up the richer, more chocolatey elements of the blend.

The sixth annual release of the Chocolate Edition is presented as they all are: at a high alcohol strength (48% ABV) without colouring or chill-filtration. Unique to the 2023 edition, however, is a hand-drawn illustration on the label from Douglas Laing’s head of creative, Claire Coetzee. You've gotta love that Fox Terrier.

Tasting Note

Nose

It really is very chocolatey, like a posh truffle with some hot chocolate powder for good measure. Cinnamon buns, salted caramel sauce, syrupy black fruits, and a little red chilli earthiness.

Palate

Viscous without being cloying or too sweet, the palate opens with a big dusting of cacao powder and a nuttiness that reminds me of Nutella. Then there’s orange oil, burnt brown sugar, prune, raspberry, and vanilla.

Finish

Baking spices, creamy nuttiness, toasted oak, and a final touch of chocolate ice cream with a pinch of sea salt.