Caperdonich 21 yo (1992/2014), Douglas Laing – Old Particular (#DL10282), 51.5%

Introduction

Caperdonich, a Speyside distillery closed in 2002, has become highly sought-after by collectors and connoisseurs alike, with this 21-year-old Douglas Laing bottling representing one of the increasingly rare opportunities to experience this vanishing whisky heritage.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish malted barley, processed at the now-silent Caperdonich distillery founded in 1898 near Rothes in Speyside
• Distillation process: Traditional copper pot still distillation following Speyside methods that create the region’s characteristic fruity, elegant spirit
• Maturation: Aged for 21 years (distilled 1992, bottled 2014) in a single specially selected oak cask (#DL10282), allowing for slow, complex flavor development
• Special techniques: Bottled as part of Douglas Laing’s Old Particular range, which emphasizes non-chill filtered, natural color, and cask strength presentation to preserve authentic character

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich orchard fruits, vanilla custard, and honeycomb with subtle hints of dried apricots, candied orange peel, and gentle oak spices
• Palate: Full-bodied with layers of caramelized apples, poached pears, creamy vanilla, warming baking spices, and sweet malt with a hint of ginger and dried fruits
• Finish: Long, warming and complex with lingering oak spice, dried fruits, and subtle hints of toasted almonds and honey

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat, though a few drops of spring water may release additional complexity and soften the high alcohol content
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with sea salt, aged cheeses, or dried fruits and nuts

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 51.5% ABV (cask strength)
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Speyside
• Certifications/Awards: Part of Douglas Laing’s highly acclaimed Old Particular series, renowned for exceptional single cask bottlings

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This Caperdonich 21-year-old represents a rapidly diminishing opportunity to taste the distinct character of a lost distillery, preserved at the peak of its maturation.

With the Caperdonich distillery demolished in 2010, each bottle opened means one less example of this historic whisky will ever exist again.

Douglas Laing, with over 70 years of independent bottling expertise, has carefully selected only the finest casks that truly represent the character of this lost distillery.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Whisky collectors and enthusiasts worldwide actively seek Caperdonich bottlings for their collections, recognizing their increasing rarity and investment potential.

Connoisseurs who have experienced previous Caperdonich releases consistently return to acquire new expressions, acknowledging the distinctive quality that sets this closed distillery apart.

The Old Particular series itself has garnered numerous accolades from whisky critics who praise its commitment to authentic, undiluted whisky experiences.

From Speyside Heritage to You

Douglas Laing has preserved this piece of Scottish whisky heritage specifically for those who appreciate the artistry and history behind each dram.

The honesty of presentation—natural color, non-chill filtered, cask strength—reflects the transparency and authenticity that genuine whisky lovers have come to appreciate from this respected independent bottler.

By enjoying this Caperdonich, you join a select community of whisky enthusiasts who value and preserve the legacy of Scotland’s distilling traditions for future generations.