Laphroaig Unveils Strong Characters 35-Year-Old Single Malt

A Tribute to History! Laphroaig Launches Strong Characters Series 35-Year-Old Rare Release

Renowned Scottish Islay distillery Laphroaig has officially released the second expression in its Strong Characters series: a 35-year-old single malt whisky. This iconic limited-edition series honors the key figures who laid the distillery's brilliant heritage and historical foundations, showcasing the brand's enduring pioneering spirit and deep craftsmanship through exceptionally matured rare liquid.

This high-aged release commemorates Dugald Johnston, son of Laphroaig co-founder Donald Johnston. Growing up during a turbulent era marked by severe economic depression, famine, and massive emigration on Islay, Dugald quietly mastered the core essence of whisky distilling behind the scenes and officially took over the distillery in 1857 upon turning 21. Over the next two decades, he successfully overcame numerous challenges, more than tripling the distillery's overall production while safeguarding and perpetuating its signature heavily peated flavor and unique character.

Bourbon Cask Maturation and Refined Flavor Profile

Unlike the series' first release honoring Donald Johnston—a 33-year-old expression dominated by sherry cask maturation—this 35-year-old masterpiece was aged entirely in American white oak bourbon casks and bottled at 43.8% ABV. On the palate, the aroma reveals sweet fragrances of freshly baked pastries, apples, and cherries; the texture is buttery, smooth, and rich, perfectly blending peaty smoke with spicy notes before slowly unfolding an elegant raisin sweetness. The finish leaves lingering star anise and subtle pepper spice, ultimately returning to the classic, long-lasting peaty smoke.

Suntory Global Spirits Master Blender Dr. Calum Fraser noted that the distillery's existing stocks of aged raw spirits are extremely scarce. While faithfully expressing the signature peated character, this whisky also exhibits a smooth, multi-layered, and delicate profile. The packaging and bottle label were designed by renowned illustrator Bill Bragg, utilizing evocative black-and-white illustrations to vividly capture the weathered appearance and island lifestyle of this historic distillery.

📅 Release Date: 2026-08-27

🔗 Source: https://thewhiskeywash.com/whiskey-news/laphroaig-unveils-35-year-old-as-part-of-strong-characters-collection/