In a remarkable unveiling that has left whisky connoisseurs around the world on the edge of their seats, the renowned Islay distillery, Laphroaig, has presented a limited edition 36-year-old whisky as the inaugural expression in their highly anticipated Wall Collection. Aptly named "The Peat Edition," this extraordinary single malt whisky pays homage to the critical role that peat plays in shaping the distinctive flavor profile of Laphroaig's iconic spirits.
At the helm of this remarkable release is the innovative use of a cask that previously cradled younger, heavily peated Laphroaig whisky. This ingenious strategy was employed to "reintensify" the brand's signature smokiness, offering a sensory experience that's second to none. Bottled at a perfectly poised 42.5% ABV, The Peat Edition tantalizes the senses with a captivating aroma featuring notes of passionfruit, strawberries, sultanas, soft leather, and cinnamon.
Upon the first sip, the palate is graced with a symphony of flavors that includes sweet orange peel, pineapple, honey, vanilla, and custard tart. Each sip is a journey through layers of complexity, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship behind this rare gem.
One of the most visually striking aspects of this release is its unique packaging. Laphroaig enlisted the talents of London-based illustrator Laura Carlin to hand-paint each bottle. What sets Carlin's work apart is her use of the very same paint that adorns the walls of Laphroaig's esteemed Warehouse No.1. The design of the bottle itself draws inspiration from the peat bricks employed in the cold-smoking process of the barley, serving as a visual representation of the whisky's smoky essence.
Barry MacAffer, the distillery manager for Laphroaig, expresses his excitement about The Wall Collection, stating, "The Wall Collection is hugely exciting for us as it celebrates two of the most enduring and iconic elements of our whisky and our distillery: the peat we use to imbue our barley with its distinctive deep, smoky flavor and the striking white walls of our distillery."
He further elaborates on the exceptional nature of The Peat Edition, explaining that it has been matured in ex-Bourbon casks before undergoing a finishing period in a heavily peated cask. This unique approach allows the whisky to recapture the smokiness that often takes a back seat in older expressions, resulting in a bottle that stands out as an unparalleled masterpiece.
However, the exclusivity of this release cannot be overstated. Only 200 bottles of The Peat Edition have been created, making it a highly sought-after collector's item. Whisky enthusiasts eager to secure their own bottle have two options. They can choose to purchase it from select specialist retailers at a suggested retail price of £4,500 (approximately $5,486), or they can participate in a lottery hosted on the Laphroaig website. The lottery is set to run from October 12th to 16th, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of whisky history.
In a world where sustainability is of increasing importance, it's worth noting that Laphroaig, which is owned by Beam Suntory, recently underwent a packaging makeover aimed at reducing carbon emissions by nearly a third. This commitment to environmental responsibility aligns with Laphroaig's dedication to quality and innovation, making it a brand that not only produces exceptional whisky but also cares for the planet.
The Wall Collection: Peat Edition is a testament to the artistry, tradition, and innovation that define Laphroaig. With its rich history, commitment to quality, and a limited number of bottles available, it is poised to become a cherished treasure among whisky aficionados worldwide.
About Laphroaig Distillery
The Laphroaig Distillery is a legendary and iconic whisky distillery situated on the southern coast of the Isle of Islay in Scotland. Founded in 1815, it has a storied history and a global reputation for producing some of the most distinctive and heavily peated single malt Scotch whiskies in the world. Laphroaig's location on the rugged shores of Islay, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, contributes significantly to the unique character of its whisky.
One of Laphroaig's defining features is its commitment to peat. The distillery uses locally sourced peat, which imparts a pronounced smokiness and earthy character to its whisky. The peat is used to dry the malted barley, and the long maturation periods in oak casks further deepen the complexity of the flavors. Laphroaig's whiskies are known for their bold and intense smokiness, often accompanied by maritime and medicinal notes.
The core range of Laphroaig whiskies includes expressions like Laphroaig 10 Year Old, Laphroaig Quarter Cask, and Laphroaig Four Oak. Each of these offerings showcases the distillery's signature peaty profile, with variations in age and cask influence providing a spectrum of tasting experiences, from youthful and brash to mature and sophisticated.
Laphroaig has also produced limited edition and special releases that explore different aspects of their whisky-making heritage. These expressions have garnered a cult following among whisky enthusiasts and collectors, often featuring unique cask finishes and experimentation with flavor profiles.
The distillery's visitor center on Islay offers tours and tastings, providing whisky enthusiasts with the opportunity to learn about Laphroaig's history, witness the whisky-making process, and sample a range of their whiskies. Laphroaig's commitment to preserving its heritage and sharing it with visitors adds to the allure of the distillery for those seeking an authentic Islay whisky experience.
In summary, The Laphroaig Distillery is an iconic name in the world of Scotch whisky, celebrated for its bold and intensely peated single malt expressions. Its rich history, unique location, and unwavering commitment to peat have made it a revered distillery among whisky connoisseurs who appreciate the bold and distinctive flavors of Islay whisky.
