*Scotch Speyside blend *ABV: 46% *Bottler/blender: Douglas Laing & Co. Ok, i admit that my mind becomes a bit more precautious when i read blend on a label. But when i see its blended by Douglas Laing who also made Big Peat, Timorous Beastie and The Epicurean my worries turn to curiosity. This might also be the bottle that gets the most attention from my non whisky drinker-friends. I recon it had some sort of impact on me buing it as well. Nose: Instant sherry surrounded by fresh ginger, citrus and cinnamon. Some sweetnes from figs, raisins, dried apricots and plums. Just like Big Peat this one have these fusel oil/yeast notes when its newly opened. It makes me wince a little and im trying to associate this note with something more pleasant. It usually goes away after few days so its not a major problem. The aroma here is otherwise concidered a pretty classic scotch id say. Palate: Sweet but tad undemonstrative sherry what turns to grain and nuts on the sides. In the back we got slightly bitter cocoa beans and sprinkles of nutmeg and cinnamon. Maby some dry tannins in the cheeks. Some where on the palate i also get a more cocky Glenmorangie 10. I recon that confirms the classic and malty scotch feel i get. Finish: The sherry lingers accompanied by easy charred oak in the back and by the way this is the only thing that reminds me of bourbon. Spiky baking spice resides for a while. Overall: Id say its a descent blend. Better than a lot of them out there. I would probably recommend this to someone who wants to try something new outside the classic box of JW Red Label, Famous Grouse and Grants. Another whisky who is similar to Scallywag would be Spearhead from Loch Lomond. Its a great single grain alternative if you’re not a fan of sherry notes.