Laphroaig 8 yo (2013/2021), McCallum – The Auld Alliance, 46.5%

Introduction

Laphroaig 8 yo (2013/2021) is a distinguished release from McCallum’s The Auld Alliance series, capturing the essence of one of Islay’s most iconic distilleries in a carefully selected independent bottling that honors Scotland’s rich whisky heritage.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Scottish malted barley, heavily peated to Laphroaig’s exacting specifications, combined with the pure water from the Kilbride Stream
• Distillation process: Double distilled in Laphroaig’s traditional copper pot stills, preserving the distinctive medicinal and maritime character
• Maturation: Carefully aged for 8 years in refill bourbon casks from 2013 to 2021, allowing the distillery character to shine while gaining subtle oak influence
• Special techniques: Bottled at 46.5% ABV without chill filtration to preserve the whisky’s natural oils and flavors

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Powerful waves of maritime peat smoke, iodine and seaweed, complemented by antiseptic notes, vanilla cream, and subtle citrus hints
• Palate: Robust peat smoke balanced with sweet vanilla, ash, maritime salt, and medicinal phenols, underpinned by orchard fruits and a touch of black pepper
• Finish: Long and warming with persistent smoke, brine, and oak spice giving way to a sweetness that lingers pleasantly on the palate

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C)
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped whisky glass or Glencairn to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of spring water to open up the complex flavors
• Food pairings: Smoked seafood, particularly oysters or salmon; blue cheese; dark chocolate with sea salt

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 46.5% ABV
• Bottle size: 70cl
• Country/Region of origin: Scotland, Islay
• Certifications/Awards: Selected for McCallum’s prestigious The Auld Alliance series, recognizing its exceptional quality and representation of distillery character

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

This McCallum bottling of Laphroaig offers a rare opportunity to experience the distillery’s legendary character through the lens of independent bottling expertise.

With only a limited number of bottles released in The Auld Alliance series, this 8-year-old expression represents a fleeting opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Selected by McCallum’s respected team of whisky experts, this bottling stands as an authoritative expression of what makes Laphroaig one of Scotland’s most distinctive distilleries.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Discerning Islay whisky enthusiasts have long sought out independent bottlings of Laphroaig for their ability to showcase different dimensions of this iconic distillery’s profile.

By adding this bottle to your collection, you join a community of devoted Laphroaig admirers who appreciate both the distillery’s official releases and carefully selected independent expressions.

The Auld Alliance series has built its reputation on selecting only exceptional casks that truly represent the character and quality of Scotland’s finest distilleries.

From Islay to You

Every dram of this Laphroaig 8-year-old offers a generous serving of Islay’s distinctive terroir – the peat, the sea spray, and generations of whisky-making tradition.

The approachable 8-year maturation period reveals Laphroaig’s character in its prime – vibrant and characterful while maintaining the smooth drinkability that makes it so appealing.

Whether you’re a devoted Islay whisky enthusiast or exploring the peated spectrum, this bottle invites you to become part of the continuing story of one of Scotland’s most treasured whisky traditions.