Scotland, Speyside. Distillery operational. Owner: Edrington Group

Despite a pedigree any distillery would be proud of, Glenrothes has maintained its exclusive and rare character. Remaining for over a century in the fold of the Highland Distillers company (Edrington Group), then the owner of Macallan, Bunnahabhain, Highland Park and Tamdhu, Glenrothes made a name among malt enthusiasts for the excellence of its ex-sherry casks, illustrated by the 12 Year Old released in the 80s and 90s. Although, over the years, the Glenrothes distillery and brand have passed from owner to owner (Pernod Ricard, Berry Brothers & Rudd), it has nonetheless maintained a special place in the hearts of connoisseurs, as is shown by the continual success of its 1972, 1973 and 1979 vintages, despite the majority of its production continuing to be absorbed by the blends Cutty Sark and Famous Grouse.

A Glenrothes single cask distilled in 1990, matured in a sherry hogshead and bottled by Douglas Laing in January 2012. Douglas Laing was founded in 1948 by Fred Douglas Laing, primarily as a blending company but also as an independent bottler, an activity which grew over the years. When Fred Douglas Laing died in 1982, his two sons Fred and Stewart took over the business. Stewart left in 2013 to set up Hunter Laing. Douglas Laing is today managed by Fred Laing and his daughter Cara. The Old & Rare series was first launched by Douglas Laing in 2001, before being picked up by Hunter Laing in 2013. A limited edition of 94 bottles.