Laphroaig The Archive Collection Aged 38 Years Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

A whisper from decades past. Laphroaig Archive 38-Year-Old is less a whisky and more a chronicle: born in 1985, matured patiently for nearly four decades to become one of the rarest single malts Islay has ever seen. It begins in ex-bourbon American oak barrels, then transitions into second-fill Oloroso hogsheads and European oak butts seasoned with sherry, letting fruit, wood, and peat entwine in harmony. Mild smoke recedes just enough to let dried apricot, sultana, salted caramel, and crystallised ginger shine through, without betraying its smoky soul. At 41.3 % ABV, it strikes a graceful balance — subtle yet profound. Each sip carries weight: lush oak, delicate citrus zest, honeyed sweetness, all wrapped in that unmistakable Laphroaig peat that lingers long after.

Nose: Orange zest, dried apricot, rich sultana, salted caramel, with soft peat smoke.

Palate: Crystallised ginger, honeyed sweetness, mellow oak spice, flashes of fruit and lingering smoke.

Finish: Long-lasting and elegant; peat resurfaces gently with sweet oak and sherry warmth, salted caramel lingering.

Pair with dark chocolate (70-85%) to accent the dried fruit and cocoa undertones. A fruit tart with apricot glaze echoes the sultanas and citrus. For savory contrast, smoked lamb chops or aged gouda help lift the smoke and peat. A creamy blue cheese on crusty bread offers a luxurious counterpoint.