Laphroaig Select Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Distillery Background and History

Laphroaig distillery, founded in 1815, is one of the oldest and most iconic whisky producers on Islay, Scotland. It sits on the southern coast of the island near Port Ellen and is famed for its bold, peaty, maritime whiskies. Laphroaig is currently owned by Suntory Global Spirits. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

While Laphroaig doesn’t publicize a single “master distiller” for the Select expression, its whisky is crafted by the in-house blending and production team who maintain the Laphroaig house style of peat, brine, and oak interplay. The Select line was introduced to explore a more layered, approachable expression, using multiple cask maturations while preserving phenolic character. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

This is a single malt made from 100 % malted barley, including peat-smoked malt from Laphroaig’s own peat bog. The water source is from the Kilbride Dam, a consistent supply for the distillery. Yeast strains are internal to Laphroaig, selected for their phenolic and fermentation profile. 

Distillation Process

Distillation is done in copper pot stills with traditional wash and spirit cuts, designed to retain phenolic characters while maintaining balance. Multiple still shapes and sizes contribute to complexity. (Standard Laphroaig practice) 

Maturation & Cask Information

Laphroaig Select is a No-Age-Statement (NAS) whisky matured through a mix of barrels: ex-bourbon barrels, Oloroso sherry butts, Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, virgin American oak barrels, and small “quarter casks.” The use of multiple cask types is intended to layer different influences (fruit, oak, sherry, spice) while keeping peat in view. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Smoky peat, caramel, vanilla, citrus, subtle oak spice. 

Palate: Sweet upfront (caramel, vanilla), followed by peat smoke, ash, light oak, and citrus touches. 

Finish: Clean peat fading into smoke, mild oak spice, and marine undertones. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs well with smoked salmon, oysters, sauced shellfish, blue cheese, charcuterie, or even a dark chocolate dessert—foods that can stand up to peat without overwhelming.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Best served neat or with a few drops of water to help open oak and peat layers. Use a Glencairn or tulip whisky glass to concentrate aromas. Serving temperature circa 18-20 °C is ideal.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once bottled, Laphroaig Select is stable. Store upright in a cool, dark setting (~15-20 °C). As an NAS whisky, it is not intended for further aging in bottle.

Grain Type & Mash Bill

Single malt (100 % malted barley)

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40 %