Laphroaig Elements 2.0
Laphroaig has introduced Elements 2.0, the second expression in its experimental series. This new single malt Scotch whisky is meant to showcase the distillery's innovative approach, exploring the impact of extended fermentation on flavor profile.
Departing from the traditional 55-hour fermentation process, Laphroaig Elements 2.0 is grounded in longer fermentation periods, some lasting up to nearly five days. This extended process, coupled with specialized aeration techniques, enhances the fruity notes inherent in Laphroaig's Islay single malt while preserving its signature peaty character.
The resulting whisky is a bold, pale gold liquid, bottled non-chill filtered at 59.6% ABV. The nose offers fruity and subtly coastal aromas, with hints of stewed apples, vanilla custard and orange peel, all underscored by subtle peat. The palate is fruity, sweet and salty, with notes of green apples, honey, cream soda and a gentle peat smoke reminiscent of a bonfire and smoked seafood. The finish is sweet, with a lingering, warming smokiness.
The renowned Islay distillery has been producing peaty Single Malt Scotch Whisky since 1815. With the new Elements series, the distillery team was given free rein to experiment and push the boundaries. For instance, the distillery usually uses two 5.5 tonne mashes to make Laphroaig. But for Elements, the team added an 8.5 tonne mash. This size was actually used pre-1990s, so this combination of 8.5 and 11 tonne mash is a mix of styles from today and from the past.
And Laphroaig's distillation process typically involves drawing semi-cloudy wort from the mashes, which contributes to the whisky's signature fruity character without sacrificing the peaty punch. In the creation of Elements 2.0, the distillery further emphasized this by extracting the cloudy wort, intensifying the peat and phenolic notes alongside the tropical fruit flavors.
This year’s Elements release follows the 2023 launch of Elements 1.0, touted as a spicy and peppery whisky. And each expression in the Elements Series features detailed packaging highlighting the experiments and craftsmanship involved in its creation.
Laphroaig Elements 2.0 is rolling out in the United States in July with a suggested retail price of $165.00 for a 700-milliliter bottle.
