First Impressions
If a single dram defines Islay for the uninitiated, Laphroaig 10 is it. Pour a glass and the room fills with peat reek, hospital antiseptic and the tang of a kelp-strewn shore.
Distillery & Heritage
Founded in 1815 by the Johnston brothers on the south shore of Islay, Laphroaig (Gaelic for 'the beautiful hollow by the broad bay') is one of only a handful of distilleries still floor-malting a portion of its own barley. The peat cut from the distillery's Glenmachrie peat bog gives Laphroaig its uniquely medicinal, iodine-rich character. The 10 Year Old has been the core expression for generations and famously holds a Royal Warrant from the then-Prince Charles.
Tasting Notes in Detail
The nose is pure Laphroaig DNA — wet rope, smoked fish, TCP and a vanilla sweetness from ex-bourbon barrels. The palate delivers bonfire ash, brine and sweet malt before that signature medicinal phenol takes over.
Verdict
The benchmark by which all peated whiskies are judged.
