Laphroaig 25 Years Old ‘The Bessie Williamson Story’ Travel Retail Exclusive

Sometimes referred to as the most richly flavoured of all Scotch whiskies, Laphroaig is one of the most iconic island distilleries. With its smoky and iodine flavours, Laphroaig embodies the Islay identity.

Although the exact etymology isn’t known, Laphroaig is said to mean “broad hollow by the bay” in Gaelic. This references its location, a small basin on Islay’s southern coast. However, it officially operated under the business name of D. Johnston & Co throughout most of its history after Donald and Alexander Johnston, who in 1815 founded their distillery on the island’s south coast.

This travel retail exclusive was released in commemoration of Bessie Williamson, the first woman in the 20th century to own and run a whisky distillery. This unique and exclusive bottle is a tribute to Bessie and her work at Laphroaig, along with her warm, rich and unmistakably-Islay character.

    Nose:    Mild smoke and a hint maritime but also slightly floral, trace of lemon, light fruitiness and sweetness behind.

    Taste:    Smoky, spicy, oak, sweet and fruity, a little tar, spices, some barrel and coffee with a hint of herbaceous and earthy, also slightly maritime and salty, trace of lemon.

    Finish:    Intense with a little smoke, spicy oak, a hint of pepper and chocolate, long fading with a little ash.