Douglas Laing unveils Black Diamond collection

Independent bottler Douglas Laing & Co has released two rare single malts dubbed 'The Queen & King' as part of its new Black Diamond Collection.

The new collection is part of Douglas Laing's Xtra Old Particular (XOP) range, dedicated to rare, mature and high-quality whiskies. Each release is bottled at cask strength with no added caramel colouring and non-chill filtration, ensuring the authenticity of its flavour. The new limited two-bottle set is an exclusive offering for global VIPs and private collectors. It is showcased in the bottler's Black Diamond format, which is said to 'redefine luxury and excellence'. For the inaugural Queen & King Collection, two remarkable whiskies with deep royal connections were chosen, from Islay-based distilleries Bowmore and Laphroaig. The Queen's choice is a 35-year-old single malt from Bowmore Distillery, which Queen Elizabeth II visited in 1980. The whisky was distilled in 1989 and aged in a single refill hogshead, resulting in only 238 bottles offered at 50.1% ABV. The 35-year-old Bowmore offers 'violet and soapy aromas' balanced with vanilla, oak, seaweed, and savoury spices on the palate. The King's Choice, on the other hand, is a 26-year-old single malt from Laphroaig, known as King Charles III's favourite. The whisky was distilled in 1998, matured in a Sherry hogshead, and limited to 191 bottles. Offered at 56.8% ABV, the 1998 Laphroaig combines peat with Sherry influences, offering 'bold aromas of smoked oak, mocha, bacon, and stewed fruits, delivering an intense and layered palate'. The set will be available globally from September at a retail price of £3,500 (US$4,680). In the UK, the collection sold out immediately upon its release. Douglas Laing & Co is also owner of Strathearn, having purchased the Perthshire-based single malt Scotch producer in October 2019. In April, it relaunched the brand as its inaugural single malt. In February 2024, the company named Cara Laing as its new managing director.