20081130 009

Laphroaig Quarter Cask takes its inspiration from the small casks often used for Scotch Whisky in the 19th century and frequently transported across the Glens by packhorse.
As the industry grew, they fell into disuse - bigger and more cost effective barrels became the norm, for maturation and transportation.
However as single malt lovers may know, the relationship between the barrel and the maturing spirit is critical. We noted that the small cask size gives up to 60% greater contact with the wood compared to some of the larger sizes used today, thus greatly intensifying the maturation process.
It was decided to re-create some of these Quarter Casks and the flavours they produce. We transferred some still maturing Laphroaig from our larger style barrels into the Quarter Casks. There then followed a further period of maturation in our original Dunnage Warehouse No1.
For greater authenticity we simply barrier filtered the whisky - the method used in those far off days - and bottle at a higher alcoholic strength.
The result was a surprised and delighted us. The additional oak influence creates a soft sweetness and velvety feel when first tasted, then the intense peatiness so unique to Laphroaig, comes bursting through. The finish is very long and alternates between the sweetness and the peat.
We believe that the original founding Johnston brothers would recognise this unique expression and thank us for recreating it. We hope you enjoy drinking Quarter Cask as much as we did making it.
Please note Laphroaig Quarter Cask may go cloudy with the addition of water in the glass. This is perfectly normal when a whisky is non chill-filtered.