Laphroaig, known for its distinctive peat-forward whiskies, has launched Strong Characters, a new series of limited-edition single malts dedicated to the individuals who shaped the distillery’s legacy.
This inaugural release has been matured for 33 years in a combination of American oak barrels and European oak ex-sherry hogsheads.
The expression pays homage to co-founder Donald Johnston, a man whose determination and passion were instrumental in establishing Laphroaig’s reputation over two centuries ago.
This inaugural release has been matured for 33 years in a combination of American oak barrels and European oak ex-sherry hogsheads…
Laphroaig’s history is intertwined with the rugged landscape of Islay and the resilience of those who built the distillery in 1815. Donald Johnston, along with his brother Alexander, laid the foundation for the brand, establishing the distillery on Islay farmland, driven by a vision to create a unique whisky infused with the island’s peaty essence.
A tribute to Laphroaig’s whisky legacy
The bottle features monochromatic illustrations by British artist Bill Bragg. The accompanying booklet tells the story of Johnston’s life and legacy, illustrated in Bragg’s signature black-and-white style.
“Donald’s story is unique,” Bragg says. His artwork portrays Johnston as a figure falling through time, symbolising the founder’s ultimate sacrifice for his craft. Johnston died in 1847, after falling into a vat of boiling pot ale at the distillery.
Teddy Joseph, Global Brand Ambassador, highlights the importance of storytelling in the whisky world: “There’s a growing desire amongst whisky drinkers for not only the flavours behind a distillery, but also the story. The Strong Characters series offers whisky drinkers the chance to delve deeper and discover the pioneers and stories that have made the brand what it is today.”
Laphroaig Strong Characters tasting notes
Bottled at 43.8% ABV, Laphroaig Strong Characters promises a sweet and savoury tasting experience. On the nose, expect notes of vanilla crème brûlée and stewed rhubarb, mixed with apple and custard, against a backdrop of sea spray indicative of Laphroaig’s coastal origins.
On the palate, official tasting notes speak of rich Christmas cake and spice, along with the distillery’s characteristic peat smoke.
Available in limited quantities, Laphroaig Strong Characters sells for £960. Whisky lovers will be able to purchase it exclusively at The Whisky Shop from October 6, with wider availability starting October 8.
Bunnahabhain has released the latest edition of its annual 12 Year Old Cask Strength whisky, bottled at 55.8% ABV. The 2026 expression brings together 12-year-old whisky matured in an equal split of first-fill Oloroso sherry and bourbon casks. Bottled at natural cask strength, it promises a rich, full-bodied interpretation of the Islay distillery’s unpeated single…
Laphroaig has released Strong Characters Chapter Two, a limited-edition 35 Year Old single malt celebrating Dugald Johnston, the son of co-founder Donald Johnston. The release follows the inaugural 33 Year Old bottling, which honoured Donald, and continues a series recognising those who have shaped the Islay distillery’s history. Dugald inherited Laphroaig during a difficult period…
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Laphroaig, known for its distinctive peat-forward whiskies, has launched Strong Characters, a new series of limited-edition single malts dedicated to the individuals who shaped the distillery’s legacy.
This inaugural release has been matured for 33 years in a combination of American oak barrels and European oak ex-sherry hogsheads.
The expression pays homage to co-founder Donald Johnston, a man whose determination and passion were instrumental in establishing Laphroaig’s reputation over two centuries ago.
Laphroaig’s history is intertwined with the rugged landscape of Islay and the resilience of those who built the distillery in 1815. Donald Johnston, along with his brother Alexander, laid the foundation for the brand, establishing the distillery on Islay farmland, driven by a vision to create a unique whisky infused with the island’s peaty essence.
A tribute to Laphroaig’s whisky legacy
The bottle features monochromatic illustrations by British artist Bill Bragg. The accompanying booklet tells the story of Johnston’s life and legacy, illustrated in Bragg’s signature black-and-white style.
“Donald’s story is unique,” Bragg says. His artwork portrays Johnston as a figure falling through time, symbolising the founder’s ultimate sacrifice for his craft. Johnston died in 1847, after falling into a vat of boiling pot ale at the distillery.
Teddy Joseph, Global Brand Ambassador, highlights the importance of storytelling in the whisky world: “There’s a growing desire amongst whisky drinkers for not only the flavours behind a distillery, but also the story. The Strong Characters series offers whisky drinkers the chance to delve deeper and discover the pioneers and stories that have made the brand what it is today.”
Laphroaig Strong Characters tasting notes
Bottled at 43.8% ABV, Laphroaig Strong Characters promises a sweet and savoury tasting experience. On the nose, expect notes of vanilla crème brûlée and stewed rhubarb, mixed with apple and custard, against a backdrop of sea spray indicative of Laphroaig’s coastal origins.
On the palate, official tasting notes speak of rich Christmas cake and spice, along with the distillery’s characteristic peat smoke.
Available in limited quantities, Laphroaig Strong Characters sells for £960. Whisky lovers will be able to purchase it exclusively at The Whisky Shop from October 6, with wider availability starting October 8.
Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old Cask Strength 2026 edition is a rich, sherried Islay whisky
Bunnahabhain has released the latest edition of its annual 12 Year Old Cask Strength whisky, bottled at 55.8% ABV. The 2026 expression brings together 12-year-old whisky matured in an equal split of first-fill Oloroso sherry and bourbon casks. Bottled at natural cask strength, it promises a rich, full-bodied interpretation of the Islay distillery’s unpeated single…
Laphroaig Strong Characters Chapter Two is a 35 Year Old single malt tribute to its historic distillery owner
Laphroaig has released Strong Characters Chapter Two, a limited-edition 35 Year Old single malt celebrating Dugald Johnston, the son of co-founder Donald Johnston. The release follows the inaugural 33 Year Old bottling, which honoured Donald, and continues a series recognising those who have shaped the Islay distillery’s history. Dugald inherited Laphroaig during a difficult period…
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The Macallan is bringing its A Night on Earth whisky series to a close with a New Orleans-inspired single malt. Created by The Macallan’s Whisky Mastery Team, its flavour profile takes cues from the city’s celebrated cuisine and cocktail culture. The whisky brings together the rich sweetness associated with sherry seasoned American oak and the…
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