Description

Laphroaig Quarter Cask Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 48%           Age: No Age Statement (NAS)           Country: Scotland

Situated on the rugged south coast of Islay, one of Scotland’s Inner Hebridean islands, known globally for its peated whiskies. It sits beside the distilleries of Lagavulin and Ardbeg, at the head of a small bay called Loch Laphroaig. Laphroaig was established in 1815 by brothers Donald and Alexander Johnston, making it one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries. Its name, from Gaelic “Lag Bhròdhaig,” means “the hollow by the broad bay.” It has a history of independent ownership (by the Johnston family and later Ian Hunter and his secretary Bessie Williamson, a pioneering woman in the industry) before eventually being acquired by larger companies. Today, it is owned by Beam Suntory (part of Suntory Holdings, a Japanese multinational). Laphroaig proudly holds a Royal Warrant from HRH The Prince of Wales (now King Charles III), awarded in 1994, reportedly his favourite Scotch whisky. Laphroaig is famous for producing a distinctly heavy, medicinal, and smoky peated single malt, often described as having notes of iodine, seaweed, and tar, along with underlying sweetness and fruit.

Laphroaig Quarter Cask is a unique expression in the Laphroaig range, known for amplifying the distillery’s signature peat and smoke with an added layer of sweetness and vanilla from its distinctive maturation process. This whisky is initially matured in ex-Bourbon barrels (standard American oak barrels). After this initial maturation, it is then transferred for a finishing period (typically 7-12 months) into much smaller “Quarter Casks.” As the name suggests, a Quarter Cask is significantly smaller than a standard barrel (around 40-60 litres, roughly a quarter the size of a standard Bourbon barrel or hogshead). The smaller size means a much greater surface area-to-volume ratio for the whisky. This increased wood contact accelerates the maturation process, intensifying the interaction between the spirit and the oak, leading to a quicker development of flavour and a richer, creamier texture. Bottled at a higher-than-standard 48% alc/vol, which contributes to its robust flavour. It is non-chill filtered, which helps retain more of the natural oils and flavours developed during maturation, contributing to a richer mouthfeel. It is a No Age Statement (NAS) whisky. The whiskies used are typically between 5 and 11 years old.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: Immediately met with classic Laphroaig peat smoke, often described as medicinal, iodine, and seaweed. This is beautifully complemented by a surprising sweetness of vanilla, crème brûlée, coconut, and sometimes a hint of banana or toasted oak.

Palate: Full-bodied and oily, coating the mouth. The initial explosion of bold, briny peat and smoke is quickly followed by a rich, velvety sweetness. Expect notes of caramel, toasted nuts, honey, and a creamy vanilla often intertwined with subtle fruit (like candied apricots or pears) and a warming oaky spice (cinnamon, black pepper). The intensity of flavour is a hallmark.

Finish: Long, warming, and satisfying. The signature smoke and peat linger, combined with a pleasant sweetness, dry oak, and often a touch of dark chocolate or espresso.

Laphroaig Quarter Cask offers an intense and complex experience, balancing its classic peaty character with rich sweetness. Laphroaig Quarter Cask is a favourite for those who love bold, peated whiskies but also appreciate depth and sweetness, offering a more intense and rounded experience than the classic 10 Year Old for many.