Elements from Laphroaig

Islay distillery Laphroaig has recently unveiled Elements, a new series that delves into the artistry of production that makes Laphroaig’s whisky so richly flavoured and characterful.

To create Elements 1.0, the Laphroaig distillery team were given free rein to produce something unexpected that embodies the traditional Laphroaig profile, while adding new dimensions of flavour. This is the first expression in the series with more to follow in 2024. It is available from select specialist retailers.

Three experiments have been brought together to create Elements 1.0. Firstly, the combination of a cloudy and semi-cloudy wort brings forward more tropical fruit notes, without compromising on the signature peat that makes Laphroaig so richly flavoured. Secondly, the distillers used both 8.5-tonne and an 11-tonne mash, combining the past and the present of distillery’s production norms. And finally, the whisky uses 100 percent Islay malt, capturing the essence of the distillery’s home in a way rarely seen in Laphroaig spirit.

Once combined, these three experiments create a whisky that is distinctly Laphroaig but with a unique twist. Fresh sea salt, smoky bacon and charred pineapple on the nose lead to a palate of peppery spice, tropical fruits and liquorice. On the finish, the famous peatiness of Laphroaig shines in the whisky with a lingering sweetness.

Bottled at 58.6 percent ABV, the nose of Elements 1.0 comprises fresh sea salt, smoky bacon with notes of strawberry jam and charred pineapple in addition to bonfire embers. Its palate exudes spicy and peppery with hints of tropical fruit, cloves and liquorice. The whisky’s finish is warming and smoky, leading to a sweet, drying and long peated finish.