Timorous Beastie - Phantom Smoke

Profile: The Timorous Beastie - Phantom Smoke at a Glance

• Timorous Beastie - Phantom Smoke: When the mouse finds fire
• Bottled at natural cask strength with a robust 54.2% ABV.
• Contains a peated Highland malt for the first time
• Finished in 100% crocodile casks - heavily charred oak barrels
• Limited to only 3,000 bottles worldwide

Portrait: What makes the Timorous Beastie - Phantom Smoke special

Once upon a time, there lived a small Scottish mouse who was actually quite shy - at least until someone put a glass of whisky in her paw. But not just any whisky! No, Timorous Beastie - Phantom Smoke is no longer a docile house mouse, but a smoky Highland rebel with plenty of bite.

Douglas Laing, the independent bottler with a penchant for bold experiments, has given its popular blended malt a smoky upgrade: A heavily peated Highland malt meets the classic Beastie character - and the whole thing was finished in so-called Crocodile Casks. Sounds dangerous? It is, a little. These casks are so heavily charred they almost growl before they take in the whisky. The result: a dramatic blend of sweet wood smoke, dark chocolate, and a hint of burnt toast that tastes surprisingly charming. At 54.2% ABV, this little rodent is anything but timid—more like a mouse on espresso.
And because only 3,000 bottles are ever made, you can feel a bit superior when you hold one in your hands. The bottle proudly sports a wraparound label and comes in an elegant box—almost too pretty to open. Almost. “Dare to follow the Phantom?” asks Douglas Laing.
Well, anyone who takes the plunge with this ghostly, smoky Highland whisky will soon discover: this mouse is no longer a cuddly toy - it's on fire. And once tasted, this Phantom Smoke is guaranteed to linger warmly in the glass (and in your memory) for a long time.

Conclusion: A distinctive, smoky Highland blended malt with clear, honest aromas. Powerful, balanced, and with a finish that stays with you long after you've finished – perfectly in line with its name, "Phantom Smoke".

Tasting Notes: This is how the Timorous Beastie - Phantom Smoke tastes like

• Nose: Distinct peat smoke right from the start, accompanied by aromas of burnt spices and toasted oak. A mild sweetness emerges behind – some vanilla, honey, and a hint of grain. Despite the smoke, the aroma remains balanced and typically Highland: robust, but not overpowering.
• Palate: On the palate, robust and dry, with notes of smoldering peat, pepper, and toasted wood. A subtle sweetness rounds it all off and brings balance between smoke and spice. The high cask strength ensures intensity without making the whisky unapproachable.
• Finish: Long-lasting, with lingering smoke, some oak spice, and a slightly sweet aftertaste. The smoke remains pleasantly present without becoming bitter.