Founded in 1815 by the Johnston family, and run for many years by Mrs. Wishart Campbell, the distillery produces Scotland's most virile whisky, and was the only one, or almost the only one, to be run by a woman. Laphroaig malts its own barley and draws its peat (very dense and very black) from the surrounding area. The latter is said to give Laphroaig its distinctive, controversial taste. Some find it too smoky and violent, while others adore its violence and heady aromas.
PEAT is the perfect expression of smoky whisky, with all the coastal character you'd expect from an island whisky, as well as a balanced sweetness.
a handful of distilleries have been chosen from across the island to create an Islay blended malt, taking the distinct character of each and bringing them together to celebrate peat.
Nose: Fairly sweet. Fresh, clean phenols immediately assert themselves, with aromas of fire on a beach and wood ash. They are supported by subtle fruity notes, some sweet, suggesting rowan jelly, others evoking unripe currants. With a drop of water, the ash is more present.
Mouth: Unctuous and with a texture that really fills the mouth, very sweet at first then quickly drying, with a hint of salt and a smoky taste of lip-smacking intensity. A drop of water brings out the sweetness even more, but makes little difference.
Finish: Long, powerfully smoky and drying, with a touch of spice that also lingers in the aftertaste.
Nose: Aromas of allspice, praline and orange, in harmony with deep notes of Sherry Oloroso.
Mouth: Orange, black cherries, dried fruit and ginger. Bitter notes of dark chocolate, enriched by lingering Sherry and oak notes. Full-bodied and creamy.
Finish: robust and long, with bittersweet notes of exotic spices, dark chocolate and oak.