The Laphroaig 25yo The Bessie Williamson Story is a travel retail exclusive whisky that has been aged for 25 years in refill American oak hogsheads and barrels. This limited edition is a tribute to Bessie Williamson, the first female distillery manager and an icon of Laphroaig. She played a crucial role in the success of the distillery and was instrumental in preserving its legacy.
Bessie Williamson took over the distillery in the 20th century after the death of its previous owner, Ian Hunter. She had been the acting manager during Ian's extensive international sales trips and was left the distillery in his will. Bessie retired in 1972, and during her tenure, the distillery was granted a Royal Warrant in 1994 from HRH The Prince of Wales.
The larger size of a hogshead allows the liquid's character to remain prevalent over 25 years of maturation while letting the signature smoky flavor of Laphroaig shine through. The overall effect is one of lingering warmth and unmistakable Islay character, representing the enduring legacy of Bessie.
Laphroaig is a substantial distillery with 7 stills and a capacity of over 3 million liters per year. The distillery was built in 1815 by brothers Alexander and Donald Johnston and remained under D. Johnston & Co until the 1960s. Laphroaig's history is filled with complex and fun stories over the weather-beaten years, and Bessie was a legend of her time, integral to Laphroaig's continued success. She was a very influential person in the whisky world, and her excellent decision-making is one of the reasons why Laphroaig survives today.
This whisky is a tribute to Bessie Williamson, the first female distillery manager of Laphroaig. It celebrates her contributions and the legacy she left behind at the distillery.
The Laphroaig 25yo The Bessie Williamson Story is a limited edition release designed to offer a unique option for collectors and connoisseurs who seek exclusive and rare whiskies during their travels.
This whisky is known for its complex and rich profile, featuring fruity notes combined with characteristic Islay smokiness.
Overall: This 25-year-old Laphroaig offers a beautifully balanced experience with its combination of fruity and smoky characteristics. The maturation in refill American oak hogsheads has allowed both the rich flavors and the signature Islay smokiness to develop, providing a rewarding and lingering finish that truly honors Bessie Williamson's legacy.
Despite its relatively moderate ABV of 43%, Laphroaig 25yo The Bessie Williamson Story convincingly delivers a complex and fulfilling experience. The interplay of fruity notes with the iconic Laphroaig smokiness makes it a standout choice. It’s an excellent tribute to Bessie Williamson and a must-try for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
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