The latest new expression from the famously peaty Islay distillery Laphroaig is Elements 2.0.
This new release is the second in the producer’s exploratory series of whiskies that experiment with different distillation techniques.
Elements 2.0 is meant to showcase the flavor impact of extending the fermentation period, aiming to produce a fruiter whisky that still retains the traditional peaty character of Laphroaig.
Disrupting the usual 55-hour fermentation process, Elements 2.0 is created from a number of longer fermentations ranging up to almost five full days in the tun — a total of 115 hours. The tun was specially aerated to maintain mash conditions, a process that helps emphasize the fruitier notes of Laphroaig Islay single malt, the distillery says, while maintaining its signature peaty character.
“Our Laphroaig Elements Series is all about blending years of traditional whisky making with new, progressive techniques,” says Barry MacAffer, distillery manager. “There’s no whisky that encapsulates Islay quite like Laphroaig — but this hasn’t stopped us experimenting in a way that preserves our iconic character. Laphroaig Elements 2.0 is an unexpected fruitier whisky with the same peaty character you’ve come to know and love — made possible by over double the typical fermentation period. I’m keen to hear what our Friends think of this whisky which follows in the successful footsteps of Elements 1.0.”
On the nose, this whisky is fruity and coastal, according to distillery notes, with stewed apples, vanilla custard and orange peel with peaty notes. The palate is fruity, sweet and salty, with green apples and honey, plus cream soda, soft peatiness and smoked seafood. The finish is sweet with an increasingly warming smokiness to finish.
Laphroaig Elements 2.0 launches this month at a suggested retail price of $165 per 700-ml. It comes bottled at 59.6% ABV.
This follows the recent launch of Laphroaig Càirdeas 2024 Cask Favourites.
