Laphroaig unveils rare 38 YO single malt

Islay’s iconic Laphroaig Distillery has announced the global release of the second edition in its prestigious Archive Collection, Laphroaig 38 Year Old, a rare single malt distilled in 1985 during a defining decade in the brand’s history.

Crafted at a time of significant change for the distillery, including the construction of a new still house during the 1980s, this expression is among the rarest ever produced in the traditional Laphroaig style. Only 400 bottles are available globally at $4,300.

Matured in American ex-bourbon casks and finished in second-fill oloroso sherry hogsheads, the whisky completed its ageing journey in an oloroso sherry-seasoned European oak butt. Bottled at cask strength of 41.3 percent ABV, the 38 YO offers a smooth, complex profile with layers of crystallised ginger, cloves, aniseed, and Laphroaig’s signature peat.

“This 38YO Laphroaig boldly tells a story of the past, offering a taste of heritage and craftsmanship honed over decades,” said Master Blender Calum Fraser.

Encased in a hand-blown glass bottle with a sea-glass-inspired neck, the whisky became available from June 12 at the Laphroaig Visitor Centre and select retailers, including Master of Malt and The Whisky Exchange.