Established in 1815, Laphroaig is celebrating its 200th anniversary with the return of a special and limited release, Laphroaig 15 Year Old.
The expression was originally released thirty years ago, has won several awards and was chosen for the ‘Erskine Charity Bottling’ in 2000 when 270 bottles were drawn from a single 15 year old cask signed by HRH The Prince of Wales. The whisky is a favourite of Laphroaig Distillery Manager John Campbell and he has decided to recreate the expression to celebrate the distillery’s 200th anniversary.
Laphroaig 15 Year Old pays homage to the original edition. Bottled at 43% ABV, the whisky is aged in 100% ex Makers Mark bourbon casks and is the fruitiest of all Laphroaig expressions.
In the glass, the whisky bears a golden hue. On the nose, the spirit is initially orchard fruit-forward followed by the characteristic Islay smoke which is initially a little more subdued than in Laphraoig 10 Year Old. The two main characteristics open up and intermingle beautifully in the glass. The palate starts with orchard and tropical fruit, peppery notes and hints of coconut and follows with a light measure of the Laphroaig signature maritime peat. The finish is mellow and dry, warming and lingering with an interplay of fruit and smoke.
Laphroaig 15 Year Old is unlike any other expression in the Laphroaig portfolio. While the Islay peat and sea character are present, the sweeter orchard fruit notes make it an approachable peated single malt to a consumer new to the category. For maximum enjoyment, sip it neat as the higher ABV is not aggressive. The whisky pairs well with cheese and fruit such as the Comté Wrapped in Date and Chervil served at the launch.
Laphroaig has been dividing options for 200 years and is currently running the “200 Opinions Wanted” campaign with social media hashtag #opinionswanted. Two hundred opinions will be selected from around the world which will earn their authors a trip to Islay for Laphroaig Live and their opinions will be displayed as tiles on the distillery walls. 2015 also marks the 21st birthday of Friends of Laphroaig, which make up the brand’s international supporters. The distillery will also be releasing a 32 year old expression later in the year.
Laphroaig 15 Year Old is a limited release with only 400 cases destined for Australia. The single malt will hit the shelves in June and will be priced at RRP of $179.99 AUD.
This article was originally published on May 14, 2015 on our sister website Gourmantic.
