Laphroaig Cairdeas Warehouse 1 Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
(750 mL) [2019 was WA 92, #12 Top 20 of 2019]

Notes from the Maker:

Matured in our iconic warehouse a skipping-stone’s throw from the Islay coast. For flavours of peat, smoke and sea salt that soar with bitter maritime character.

Our Càirdeas expression for 2022 reflects how Friends bring out more in each other. This limited-edition single malt, aged 7-8 years in first-fill ex-Maker’s Mark bourbon barrels, dials up our quintessential Laphroaig taste. Classic flavours are elevated by a coastal character that can only come from sea spray and storms. It’s a match made in Islay.

Warehouse 1’s rare four-storey construction, with varying levels of temperature and humidity, and exposure to rugged conditions tease out our enigmatic flavours and lend a maritime quality to the final whisky. Bottled at a fixed strength of 52.2% for a memorable experience to share with your Friends.

Càirdeas means ‘friendship’ in Gaelic and, each year, a limited-edition bottling is crafted by distillery manager and fifth generation Islay native, John Campbell, available exclusively to Friends of Laphroaig.

On Islay there is a saying; We don't make friends easily but the ones we do are for life. Launched in 1994, Friends of Laphroaig are fans, friends and followers of our distillery from all over the world. Never short of an opinion or two they help Laphroaig explore new expressions, attend tastings and sometimes even visit the distillery at Laphroaig’s home on Islay. To reward the loyalty of its following, each year we launch exclusive bottlings within the Càirdeas series.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: Peaty, sweet and nutty with “medicinal” notes. Strong vanilla cake, fudge, heather-honey, golden syrup, walnuts and nutmeg.

BODY: Full-bodied with vibrant aromas from nose to finish.

FINISH: Peaty and acidic with lingering herbal and spicy notes leading to a floral aftertaste. 

PALATE: Powerful peat-reek and ashy notes of tar combine with sweet Manuka honey and burnt toffee. Oak spices, tannins, white pepper, plus dried herbs and flowers add an herbal touch.

Awards/Reviews

"The nose is all sweet vanilla and peach cobbler, along with some apricot and a bit of smoke, of course. The palate really opens up quite strongly with bright citrus notes of lemon, along with honey, black pepper, and once again that trademark smoke. Yes, this is a different whisky in many regards from the core expression, but taken in comparison based on age basis alone it’s very interesting to see that less time in a barrel can result in an equally good whisky, something any true whisky fan is acutely aware of." - Robb Report