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 for Islay. He had spent years learning the craft of whisky production behind the scenes before formally taking control on his 21st birthday in 1857. The island was facing economic hardship, the effects of famine and a declining population. Over the following two decades, Dugald increased Laphroaig’s production more than threefold, while maintaining the distillery’s distinctive character.
The new expression reflects his patient approach to building the business. It’s been matured exclusively in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels, giving whisky enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the development of Laphroaig’s spirit over 35 years in this particular type of cask.
The new expression has been matured exclusively in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels…
Laphroaig Strong Characters Chapter Two tasting notes
Bottled at 43.8% ABV, the whisky retains the distillery’s characteristic peat smoke, softened by extended maturation. The result is creamy and complex.
On the nose, freshly baked pastry is accompanied by apple and cherry, with the aromas bringing to mind Bakewell tart or fruit crumble. The palate introduces inviting smokiness and spice, followed by a creamy mouthfeel and light raisin notes. The finish brings lingering aniseed and a gentle, peppery tingle, gradually returning to the original peat smoke.
Master blender Dr Calum Fraser says the scarcity of mature Laphroaig casks made the creation of the 35 Year Old both a privilege and a responsibility.
“Every cask considered had to contribute something distinctive, and offer complexity, sweetness and smoke. The result is a whisky that showcases a softer, more nuanced side of Laphroaig while remaining true to its unmistakable character.”
The presentation has been designed by British illustrator Bill Bragg. His black-and-white artwork captures the resilience, hardship and character of life at the historic Islay distillery. Bragg spent time at Laphroaig to develop illustrations informed by its heritage and the stories of the people who have worked there.
Strong Characters Chapter Two is limited to 5,500 bottles worldwide. It’s available from Master of Malt, priced at £880.
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 for Islay. He had spent years learning the craft of whisky production behind the scenes before formally taking control on his 21st birthday in 1857. The island was facing economic hardship, the effects of famine and a declining population. Over the following two decades, Dugald increased Laphroaig’s production more than threefold, while maintaining the distillery’s distinctive character.
The new expression reflects his patient approach to building the business. It’s been matured exclusively in American white oak ex-bourbon barrels, giving whisky enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the development of Laphroaig’s spirit over 35 years in this particular type of cask.
Laphroaig Strong Characters Chapter Two tasting notes
Bottled at 43.8% ABV, the whisky retains the distillery’s characteristic peat smoke, softened by extended maturation. The result is creamy and complex.
On the nose, freshly baked pastry is accompanied by apple and cherry, with the aromas bringing to mind Bakewell tart or fruit crumble. The palate introduces inviting smokiness and spice, followed by a creamy mouthfeel and light raisin notes. The finish brings lingering aniseed and a gentle, peppery tingle, gradually returning to the original peat smoke.
Master blender Dr Calum Fraser says the scarcity of mature Laphroaig casks made the creation of the 35 Year Old both a privilege and a responsibility.
“Every cask considered had to contribute something distinctive, and offer complexity, sweetness and smoke. The result is a whisky that showcases a softer, more nuanced side of Laphroaig while remaining true to its unmistakable character.”
The presentation has been designed by British illustrator Bill Bragg. His black-and-white artwork captures the resilience, hardship and character of life at the historic Islay distillery. Bragg spent time at Laphroaig to develop illustrations informed by its heritage and the stories of the people who have worked there.
Strong Characters Chapter Two is limited to 5,500 bottles worldwide. It’s available from Master of Malt, priced at £880.
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