
Laphroaig 2003
Laphroaig is one of those names that is often known outside the close inner circle of whisky fandom. It’s an exceptional distillery with a long history of making excellent whisky – but the thing that most people remember about it is just how peaty it is. Other Islay whiskies may have higher ppms than Laphroaig, but the flavour profile of Laphroaig is some of the boldest and most oceanically algal in all of Scotch whisky.
This cask shows that off magnificently – using the classic flavours of a bourbon hogshead to allow Laphroaig’s distinctive maritime peatiness to express itself. At 17 years old, it is less intense than a younger Laphroaig as the flavours have begun to settle comfortably together. Bottle it soon to maintain some of that raw power, or wait a while and let things mellow out yet further.
Auction estimate: £80,000 – £85,000