In the world of Scotch Whisky, where heritage runs deep and every dram tells a story, few names carry the historical weight of King of Scots. First created in 1886, this revered blend has stood the test of time—a Whisky fit for royalty and reborn for today’s discerning drinker. Now proudly curated by Fred Laing, the second generation of the Douglas Laing family, King of Scots remains a crowning achievement in blended Scotch—marrying tradition with craft in every bottle.
The Origins: A Whisky Born in 1886
To appreciate the King of Scots is to step back into the golden age of Scotch Whisky. The year 1886 saw the world of Whisky thrive in a post-industrial Scotland, where the art of blending was fast becoming the future of whisky. It was in this climate that King of Scots was born—a blend designed to deliver elegance, accessibility, and character in every glass. At the time, blended whisky was prized for its smoothness and consistency, making it the style of choice for a growing global audience.
The Laing Legacy
Douglas Laing & Co., founded in 1948, has long been synonymous with quality and character in Scotch Whisky. When King of Scots joined the family, it was more than a brand acquisition—it was a commitment to preserve and elevate a historic blend. Today, Fred Laing, Master Blender and custodian of the family tradition, leads the ongoing development of King of Scots with care and purpose.
Under Fred’s stewardship, King of Scots is not just a legacy brand—it’s a living one. His approach is hands-on, passionate, and guided by decades of blending experience. While cask selection plays a role, the emphasis is on the art of blending itself and the increased malt-to-grain ratio that sets this Whisky apart. The result is a richer, more full-bodied character that reflects the Laing family's pursuit of excellence.
The Art of the Blend
Blended Scotch is an art form, and King of Scots is its masterpiece. What makes this blend stand out is its higher proportion of Malt Whisky, delivering a depth of flavour uncommon in typical blends. The result is a beautifully harmonised expression, offering notes of honeyed Malt, gentle spice, orchard fruits, and a subtle smokiness. It is approachable yet complex, making it ideal for both connoisseurs and those new to Scotch Whisky.
Enjoy it neat to appreciate its layered profile, or serve it with a splash of water to open up the flavours. However you drink it, King of Scots is a reminder that blending, when done right, is every bit as refined as Single Malt.
Honouring the Past, Leading the Future
With over 135 years of heritage, King of Scots continues to command respect. Its packaging today pays homage to tradition while embracing modern elegance, appealing to new generations of whisky lovers around the globe. It sits proudly within Douglas Laing’s portfolio as a symbol of their commitment to quality, heritage, and innovation.
Whether you’re raising a glass to Scotland’s rich Whisky history or discovering a new favourite blend, King of Scots is a Whisky that wears its crown well.