Laphroaig unveils 38YO for £4,100
Islay distillery Laphroaig has released a 38-year-old single malt as the second whisky in its Archive Collection.
The 38-year-old follows the Archive Collection’s inaugural 36-year-old release in November 2023.
The collection is said to celebrate Laphroaig’s history and ‘the skilled pioneers behind its story’.
The new limited edition 38-year-old Laphroaig was distilled in 1985 at the peak of a difficult decade for the Scotch whisky industry.
Not only did many distilleries close, or they forced to be mothballed, but for Laphroaig, the 1980s saw production slow down ahead of extensive renovations. These renovations included a new still house, bringing the distillery’s stills and condensers inside the room for the first time.
Daryl Haldane, private client director of Laphroaig, owned by Suntory Global Spirits, commented: “The Archive Collection offers a unique opportunity for whisky lovers to immerse themselves in a significant moment in Laphroaig’s history.
“The 1980s was a pivotal time for the distillery but the focus never wavered. For me, I think it’s both exciting and intriguing that this spirit from the early reveals a rich story from the past. It is a step back in time, a genuine throwback to times gone by.
“The rarity of this 38-year-old single malt stands as a true testament to the conviction and dedication that has always defined Laphroaig.”
Initially aged in American oak ex-Bourbon casks, the whisky spent time in a second-fill oloroso Sherry hogshead before completing its journey in an oloroso Sherry-seasoned European oak butt. The expression was bottled in 2023.
Bottled at a cask strength of 41.3% ABV, the single malt displays aromas of dried fruits, raisins, dates, caramelised orange peel, cherry blossom, and ‘a faint whiff of fresh tobacco’. The palate offers notes of dried apricots, sultanas, salted caramel, crystallised ginger, cloves, and aniseed with peppery and smoked mackerel-like oily texture.
Calum Fraser, master blender at Laphroaig Distillery, said: “The 38-year-old Laphroaig boldly tells a story of the past, providing drinkers with the chance to experience the unmatched skill and spirit of Laphroaig – an experience you won’t forget.
“This single malt continues the legacy of our highly aged expressions, combining a broad spectrum of flavours and aromas. It brings something new to our classic house style, showcasing the depth and complexity that comes with decades of maturation. This release is a true celebration of our heritage and expertise, captured in every bottle.”
Limited availability
Laphroaig Archive Collection 38-year-old is presented in a hand-blown glass bottle with a textured neck inspired by sea glass found on the beaches of Laphroaig’s island home of Islay.
Limited to only 400 bottles globally, the second edition of the Archive Collection has a recommended retail price of £4,100 (US$4,300).
The release was initially made available to the distillery’s members’ club, Friends of Laphroaig, through a ballot.
Laphroaig 38-year-old is now also available from the Laphroaig visitor centre on Islay and select specialist retailers, including Master of Malt and The Whisky Exchange.
Earlier this year, the distillery released the third edition in its Elements Series and celebrated Fèis Ìle with its latest Càirdeas expression, Lore Cask Strength.
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