LAPHROAIG STRONG CHARACTERS CHAPTER 1
33 YEAR OLD SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY
ISLAY, SCOTLAND
If it ain't broke, the saying goes, don't fix it. But Laphroaig, the Islay legend long revered for its intensely-peated malts, has continued to seek new expressions, new colorations of flavor and texture, and let me tell you: Strong Characters Vol. 1 is utterly unlike anything of theirs we've ever had the pleasure of sipping — and yep, just as strong and characterful as the name says.
And just to note, folks: we were given access to the last 60 bottles of this release in the U.S.
Matured in a combination of American oak ex-bourbon casks and European oak sherry-seasoned hogsheads, this 33-year-old limited-edition collectible is a little like discovering a secret room in a house you thought you knew completely. The nose opens with crème brûlée and stewed rhubarb, neither of which prepare you, really, for what comes next: the cascading notes of briny sea spray, sourdough bread, and heather honey. The palate calls to mind fruit cake and subtle spice, and the sherry influence is unmistakable, bringing nuance and dimension. But also unmistakable is the essential (and lovable) Laphroaig foundation: deep, peaty, meaty. The finish is so wonderfully savory and rich, conjuring smoked ham and cured mackerel, along with what I can only call a smoky grassiness.
Donald Johnston, the namesake of this release, was the older of two brothers who, in 1815, had the audacity to establish a distillery from scratch, on hereto undeveloped farmland. Through what the distillery calls "bold choices and strong convictions," Donald and brother Alexander succeeded despite the long odds, creating a formidably uncompromising distillery that, more than 200 years on, only gets more interesting with age.
So, here’s to strong characters … and Strong Character. Secure yours today!
P.S. Chapter 2 is expected to be on its way later this year. Watch this space …
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Summer 2026. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. The price reflected on your order form is subject to change after the order is placed in the event of a change in tariffs or taxes that are imposed by the U.S. government, or in the case of currency fluctuations of 10% or greater. Offer not valid in GA, KS, MI, NC, NE, NY, TN, VA, & WA. This offer will expire on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.