Laphroaig has unveiled the second edition of its Archive Collection, a 38-year-old single malt whisky distilled in 1985 during a pivotal decade of change at the Islay distillery. The release marks one of the rarest spirits from this transformative period.
The whisky comes from an era when Laphroaig faced significant challenges. Production slowed in the 1980s as the distillery underwent extensive renovations, including the construction of a new stillhouse. This rare expression represents some of the last whisky made using the traditional setup before the stills and condensers were brought inside for the first time.
The Making of Laphroaig Archive Collection 38 Year Old
The 38-year-old single malt underwent a complex maturation journey. The spirit aged in American ex-bourbon casks before receiving a finish in second-fill oloroso sherry hogsheads. It completed its maturation in an oloroso sherry-seasoned European oak butt.
Bottled at cask strength of 41.3% ABV, the whisky presents distinctive flavors according to official tasting notes. The nose offers spicy notes with dried fruits, raisins, dates, caramelized orange peel and cherry blossom undertones. The palate delivers dried apricots and sultanas with salted caramel creaminess, alongside crystallized ginger, cloves and aniseed. Laphroaig’s signature peat provides a peppery sensation balanced by sweetness.
The presentation reflects the distillery’s island heritage. The whisky comes in a hand-blown glass bottle featuring a textured neck inspired by sea glass found on Islay beaches.
Limited Global Release Commands Premium Price
Only 400 bottles of the Laphroaig Archive Collection 38-year-old are available worldwide. The release carries a retail price of $4,300 (£4,100 / €4,760). Friends of Laphroaig members received first access through an exclusive ballot before the June 12 general release.
“The Archive Collection offers a unique opportunity for whisky lovers to immerse themselves in a significant moment in Laphroaig’s history,” said Daryl Haldane, Private Client Director. “The 1980s was a pivotal time for the distillery but the focus never wavered.”
Master Blender Calum Fraser emphasized the release’s significance within Laphroaig’s portfolio of aged expressions. The whisky will be available at the Laphroaig Visitor Centre and select specialist retailers, including Master of Malt and The Whisky Exchange.
The Archive Collection represents Laphroaig’s commitment to preserving and sharing its distillery history. Each release celebrates the skilled whisky makers who navigated challenging periods while maintaining production standards.
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