Timorous Beastie Small Batch Release - Douglas Laing
The name Timorous Beastie may sound like a shy little mouse, but this whisky has it all. Inspired by Robert Burns' poem “To a Mouse”, this Highland malt is an ode to the Scottish Highlands - but not quite as intimidating as the name might suggest. With 46.8 % vol. and no age statement, it brings quite a bit of character to the table, but is it really a highlight or more of a moody mouse? Let's take a closer look.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The first nosing is a positive surprise - the fragrance is light, fresh and floral. You immediately smell aloe vera and a breeze of hay, reminiscent of a summer's day in a Highland meadow. These are joined by honey and a hint of linseed oil, which make the fragrance pleasantly sweet. Citrus notes and a green apple also provide a fresh, sweet and sour balance. It is an interesting and versatile combination that arouses curiosity. Almost like a walk through the Highlands, with the fresh wind blowing herbs like sage around your nose. A really nice, albeit somewhat gentle start that doesn't quite hint at the beast in the name.
Palate
The first sip reveals a little more bite. The pepper on the tongue briefly makes you sit up and take notice, while nutty and malty notes are added. It feels like you're eating a spoonful of porridge - creamy, slightly grainy and somehow cosy. Oatmeal plays a major role, which is not surprising as the Highlands are known to be the home of porridge. In between, a subtle sweetness flits through - maple syrup with a slight tang. It is not an opulent sweetness, but rather a pointed, slightly restrained note. A small daisy peeps out, floral and delicate, before the next surprise arrives: a splash of white wine that gives the whole thing a refreshing kick.
Finish
The finish is... well, short and interesting. It's not what you'd call a dramatic finish, but it has its own charms. Nutty and sugary, with a final hint of oak and - surprise! - a pineapple kick. This exotic fruit note gives the finish another fresh twist before it finally says goodbye. It is perhaps the most exciting feature of this whisky.
Thoughts
Marcel 77/100
Timorous Beastie is like a little surprise party in a glass: fresh, charming, and with a touch of humor. The floral and nutty notes are enjoyable, even though the finish is a bit too short to fully impress. A whisky that piques curiosity and definitely leaves more than just a fleeting impression – a lovable beast with character and quirks.
Sascha 70/100
The Timorous Beastie shows a solid balance between floral and nutty components, with the moderate strength of 46.8% well integrated. The structure is pleasantly approachable, yet the blend lacks depth and a more lasting finish to fully realize its potential. Overall, an interestingly composed Highland blend that still has room for improvement in terms of complexity and aftertaste.
Value for Money: Good
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77/100Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Timorous Beastie Small Batch Release by Douglas Laing special in terms of taste?
The whisky combines a fresh, floral nose with aromas of aloe vera, honey, and citrus fruits. On the palate, malty and nutty notes dominate, accompanied by a creamy oatmeal texture and a delicate sweetness. A surprising splash of white wine adds a refreshing accent, while the finish impresses with nutty, oak-wood, and exotically fruity pineapple notes.
Why does the Timorous Beastie Small Batch Release have no age statement, and how does this affect the taste?
The whisky is a small batch release without an age statement, meaning the exact maturation periods of the casks used are not disclosed. This allows the independent bottler Douglas Laing to blend various casks to achieve a balanced and characterful flavor without being tied to a specific age.
How does the Timorous Beastie Small Batch Release compare to traditional Highland whiskies?
Although it originates from the Highlands, the Timorous Beastie presents a somewhat lighter and fresher aroma profile than many traditional Highland whiskies. With its combination of floral, malty, and fruity notes, it offers a modern take on the region that is less smoky and heavy, yet complex and versatile in flavor.