Laphroaig Select Oak is a selection of whiskies from its 5 types of barrels. A unique product on the market.
Laphroaig Select Oak takes its name from the special selection of American and European casks, chosen for their unique character that they give during maturation.
Our Inspiration for our new Global expression has been taken from history – 70–80 years ago, the time of the last family member owner of the distillery, Ian Hunter.
Ian was one of the biggest influences in the history of Laphroaig indeed he was one of the first distillers to travel to Bourbon County in the USA to identify new sources of casks that would give him greater consistency as well as new flavours.
He later married this ‘new’ style of Laphroaig with his traditionally matured (European cask) Laphroaig.
Inspired by his early work, we have used Oloroso sherry butts, straight American white oak (non-filled with bourbon), PX seasoned hogsheads, Quarter Casks and finally of course first fill Bourbon Casks.
This varied cask maturation technique enabled us to create 6 new flavour combinations that were then tested with our FOL’s to choose their favourite style and indeed name.
The winning flavour and name chosen by you is LAPHROAIG Select Oak
Technical Details
PPM (phenol parts per million)
Cask
American ex-Bourbon casks, American white oak casks, Spanish ex-Oloroso casks, Spanish ex-Pedro Ximenez casks, Quarter Cask
Tasting Notes
Colour: A Fully Natural colour with no caramel added, it is sparkling gold with layers of colour – arising from different maturations and oils mixing together.
Nose: Peat first, then ripe red fruits from the PX and Oloroso casks. A hint of dryness next from the American oak with a long lingering florally finish - Marzipan and even limes at the end.
Palate: This full bodied whisky is initially sweet up front- matching the nose, then the classic dry, peaty, ashy flavours come bounding in followed by a lovely rich finish arising from the rich fruits of the European casks.
Awards
San Francisco World Spirits 2022 - Oro
International Spirits Challenge 2022 - Plata
International Wine & Spirits Competition 2019 - Plata
The Asian Spirits Masters 2018 - Plata
International Wine & Spirits Competition 2017 - Plata
