William Lawson

William Lawson's is a popular and widely distributed blended Scotch whisky originating from Scotland in 1849. Now owned by Bacardi and blended near Glasgow, it's celebrated for its smooth, easy-drinking nature and a flavour profile dominated by sweet fruitiness and malt, notably featuring Glen Deveron single malt. It deliberately eschews peat smoke, making it very approachable, especially for those new to Scotch or who prefer a less challenging dram. The brand champions a 'No Rules' philosophy, emphasizing enjoyment over tradition, making it a versatile spirit for various occasions and serving methods. It generally represents good value within the standard blended Scotch market.  

The William Lawson's story began in 1849 when William Lawson, an export merchant in Dundee, Scotland, registered the name and began blending whisky. However, the modern brand identity is less focused on historical figures and more on its bold, unconventional 'No Rules. Great Scotch.' ethos. This marketing approach deliberately sets it apart from the often perceived formality of the Scotch whisky world. The blend itself, crafted by Stephanie Macleod (Bacardi's Master Blender), reflects this attitude – it's designed to be approachable, fruity (using malts like Glen Deveron), and smooth, specifically avoiding the challenging peat smoke characteristic of some regions, making it a 'rebellious' spirit in its own way.

• Nose: Sweet cereal notes, hints of green apple or apple skins, creamy barley, a touch of sweet toffee or caramel, and subtle floral undertones.
• Palate: Smooth and medium-bodied. Initial sweetness leads to flavours of toasted oak, perhaps apple pie or stewed apples, creamy maltiness, butterscotch, and a gentle spice (like cinnamon or nutmeg).

Neat: Sip it straight at room temperature to appreciate its core fruity and malty notes. On the Rocks: Serve over ice cubes to slightly chill and dilute, softening the flavours.   With Water: Adding a small splash of still water can open up the aromas. With Mixers: It pairs very well with cola (a popular serve), ginger ale, or soda water for a simple highball. Lemonade or apple juice can also work.   In Cocktails: Suitable as a base for straightforward whisky cocktails like a Whisky Sour, Rob Roy, or simple whisky and fruit juice combinations.  

• Sweet: Apple crumble, shortbread, caramel-based desserts, milk chocolate.

• Approachability: Its smooth, sweet, and non-peaty profile makes it an excellent introduction to Scotch whisky or a great choice for those who prefer an easy-drinking style.
• Versatility: Performs well neat, on the rocks, and especially well with a wide range of mixers.
• Value: Typically offers a good balance of quality and price within the standard blended Scotch category.
• Unpretentious Attitude: Appeals to consumers looking for a good quality Scotch without the perceived stuffiness or strict rules often associated with the category.

William Lawson's is a highly successful and accessible blended Scotch whisky that delivers on its promise of a smooth, fruity, and easy-drinking experience. It's an excellent choice for casual sipping, mixing (especially with cola or ginger ale), and as an entry point into the world of Scotch whisky due to its lack of peat and approachable flavour profile. While it may not offer the complexity or depth sought by connoisseurs of aged single malts, it provides consistent quality and good value for money, living up to its 'No Rules. Great Scotch.' mantra.