New Select expression from Laphroaig released

Beam Suntory has released a new expression of Laphroaig Islay single malt Scotch whisky: Laphroaig Select.

The new release brings the distinct styles of the Laphroaig portfolio together to create an expression that has an added layer of complexity and depth brought about by the marrying of various maturation styles and different oaks.

The packaging for Laphroaig  Select was designed by Jones Knowles Richie in London. The liquid was selected by Laphroaig master distiller, John Campbell, from the finest casks representing the favourite styles of Laphroaig - Quarter Cask, PX Cask, Triple Wood and 10-year-old casks - creating a subtle blending of peat, oak and sweetness. The true heart of the spirit is then drawn from a final maturation in new American Oak casks, rarely used in Scotch Whisky maturation. During the last six months of aging, Laphroaig Select rests in the highest, warmest reaches of the warehouse throughout the Scottish summer.

The inspiration behind Laphroaig Select Scotch whisky, and the unique method of aging, comes from the history and family lineage of the Laphroaig brand. Ian Hunter, the last family member to own Laphroaig, was influential in experimenting with new ways of distilling and was one of the first to combine American bourbon casks with traditional European casks to create new flavours, which at the time had not been seen.

Laphroaig Select takes inspiration from Ian, creating a new expression with both classic and new flavours. “Laphroaig Select is a true original and, as always, we have stayed true to our roots, using the fantastic Laphroaig heritage as inspiration for this new innovation,” says Campbell. “Laphroaig Select delivers a liquid with a unique marriage of our trademark ‘peat reek’ and a gentle sweetness, which we hope will both surprise and delight you.”

In addition to the US, where it has an RRP of US $55.00 per 75cl bottle, Select is currently selling In the UK, Germany and Italy with plans to rollout to France in Q4 and the wider EMEA Markets in 2015. The new release joins the Laphroaig portfolio of Scotch whiskies that include Laphroaig 10-Year-Old, 10-Year-Old Cask Strength, Quarter Cask, 18-Year-Old, 25-Year-Old, QA Cask, Triple Wood and Cairdeas 2014 Amontillado Edition.

31 July 2014 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor