Rock Island Small Batch Release - Douglas Laing
This blend of the famous independent bottler Douglas Laing offers us a composition of the characteristic and absolutely unmistakable aromas of the Hebrides.Douglas Laing provides us with independently bottled blends. Founded back in the 1940s, Douglas Laing distributes a variety of different series in which single malts are blended and thematically ordered. Within the Remarkable Regional Malts, Rock Island represents the Scottish islands. Fun Fact: Originally distributed as Rock Oyster, the bottling was renamed to Rock Island, as oysters had a negative connotation for many customers.
Tasting Notes
Nose
At first, we are met by a pleasant portion of peat smoke. Slighty hidden there is a wonderful sweetness. Malt and vanilla combine with fresh citrus notes. The classic maritime aroma of the Hebrides.
Palate
Like a proper gulp of seawater, Rock Island lies on the palate with an interesting saltiness. Spices and smoke provide a mouth-filling aroma. Citrus freshness and vanilla take a back seat, but are clearly perceptible.
Finish
As expected, the spice and smoke provide a lasting finish. The typical maritime aroma of the Scottish islands remains.
Thoughts
Marcel 55/100
Rock Island is like a stroll along a windy beach – pleasantly smoky with a sweet, malty embrace. Not a groundbreaking dram, but certainly charming and easy-drinking for a relaxed evening by the sea.
Sascha 79/100
The Rock Island Small Batch impresses with a harmonious balance between peaty smoke, maritime saltiness, and subtle citrus notes. Despite lacking sharp edges, the blend offers a solid structure that is typical of the Hebrides region.
Value for Money: Good
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81/100Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Rock Island Small Batch Release from Douglas Laing special compared to other Hebridean whiskies?
Rock Island combines typical Hebridean aromas with a strong maritime character, shaped by peat smoke, salty sea air, and spicy notes. The blend comes from Douglas Laing, an independent bottler known for their thematically curated regional malts.
Why was the whisky originally called Rock Oyster and then renamed?
The whisky was originally named Rock Oyster, but due to many customers’ negative associations with oysters, Douglas Laing changed the name to Rock Island to place greater emphasis on the Scottish islands and their distinctive flavors.
How does the 46.8% alcohol content influence the tasting experience of this whisky?
At 46.8% ABV, Rock Island has enough strength to clearly convey the complex aromas of peat smoke, spice, and maritime notes without being too harsh. The alcohol level delivers an intense yet balanced flavor and a lasting finish.