Cameronbridge 45 Year Old – Douglas Laing 75th Anniversary

The Cameronbridge 45 Year Old – Douglas Laing 75th Anniversary is an exceptionally rare and superbly aged Single Grain Scotch Whisky created to commemorate the 75‑year heritage of Douglas Laing & Co., one of Scotland’s most respected independent bottlers. Released as part of the Xtra Old Particular – Diamond Collection for the company’s 75th anniversary, this extraordinary dram showcases the potential for grain whisky to be both refined and deeply expressive when given time, quality wood and a collector‑level bottling.

Crafted from spirit distilled at Cameronbridge Distillery in the Lowlands — a historically significant site and one of Scotland’s most prolific grain whisky producers — this expression was matured for 45 years in a single refill barrel before being hand‑selected by Douglas Laing’s custodians of deep cask stocks. Only 98 bottles were produced, underscoring the rarity of both the cask and the story it tells.

The Cameronbridge 45 Year Old is bottled at a robust 54.6 % ABV, natural colour and non‑chill‑filtered, preserving the full aromatic oils and textural nuance developed over decades of oak interaction. Unlike younger commercial grain whiskies, which can lean lighter and simpler, this ultra‑aged release displays remarkable body and complexity — a testament to the forgiving nature of grain spirit and the careful stewardship of the cask over time.

On the nose, this whisky opens with a luxurious bouquet defined by deep brown sugar and molasses, rich corn sweetness and warm spice notes that evolve slowly as the glass rests. Hints of toffee, vanilla and butterscotch mingle with soft tropical fruit undertones and delicate oak influence, inviting slow and contemplative nosing.

The palate is incredibly layered and textural, with an unctuous mouthfeel that many drinkers describe as both smooth and satisfying. Initial flavours of drizzled lemon juice, creamy caramel and barley sugar give way to honeyed layers and subtle spices that derive from prolonged oak contact. The interplay of sweetness and spice reflects a whisky that has not only endured but thrived through extended maturation.

On the finish, the experience is long and memorable. Lingering notes of vanilla‑infused oak, maple syrup and faint smoke unfold gradually, leaving a warm, balanced aftertaste that rewards slow sipping and reflection. This finish underscores the whisky’s elegant evolution over four and a half decades — an impressive feat for a grain expression.

Heritage and Significance

Cameronbridge Distillery has long been recognised as one of Scotland’s cornerstones of grain whisky production, supplying spirit historically destined for blends but increasingly recognised in its own right. Independent bottlers such as Douglas Laing have championed these rarities, selecting rare casks from deep stocks that might otherwise never be seen as single releases.

To mark 75 years as a family‑owned independent, Douglas Laing created the Diamond Collection, a series of six ultra‑rare single cask releases featuring some of the finest deep‑cask spirits available, including this Cameronbridge 45 Year Old alongside other iconic bottlings from Port Dundas, Macallan, Speyside and more. Each whisky in this series is presented with bespoke luxury accoutrements, such as crystal decanters and glasses, to elevate the entire tasting experience.

Usage and Appreciation

The Cameronbridge 45 Year Old – Douglas Laing 75th Anniversary is best enjoyed neat in a tulip or Glencairn glass to allow its aromatic complexity and textural depth to unfold. Its extended finish and layered profile make it ideal for premium tasting flights, collector showcases and comparative grain whisky studies that contrast grain and malt maturation.

Collectors and enthusiasts seek out this release not only for its rarity and vintage pedigree but also for the trust and expertise behind its selection, reflecting Douglas Laing’s decades of blending and bottling mastery. Whether enjoyed at a special occasion or as a centerpiece in a curated whisky cabinet, this whisky represents the very best of aged grain whisky craftsmanship.

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