This was the first chapter in a series from Laphroaig, celebrating those who have shaped the brand. The first release is dedicated to Donald Johnston, who with his brother, created the distillery. Donald’s life is shown through the artwork of illustrator Bill Bragg.
Chapter Two was released not long ago. It is dedicated to his brother Dugald Johnston. That whisky is a 35 year-old from bourbon barrels.
Laphroaig 33 yo ‘Donald Johnston’ (43,8%, OB ‘Strong Characters’ 2024, European oak sherry hogshead finish, 1000 btl.)
Nose: rather excellent. It’s not a powerhouse but it does show deep wintery peat smoke, roasted nuts and hints of freshly baked bread crust. Then light menthol and heather, along with the sweetness of crème brûlée and apple pie. Herbal syrup and faint medicinal notes. In the background also tropical fruits (stewed papaya) but not as outspoken as in other expressions.
Mouth: now it feels a little more tired, with a good dose of oak spice (ginger, pepper) and some dark brew tea, behind a curtain of sherry (mainly raisins and tobacco). Dark roast coffee beans underneath, with some sea salt and dark chocolate. A faint hint of polished brassware. Lacks just a little body in the middle. Then leather, smoked lemons and a hint of herbal honey, along with sweet ashy notes and more of this herbal syrup.
Finish: long, with toasted notes, dark chocolate and drops of herbal bitters.
My view changed a couple of times: the nose was impressive, but initially I thought the palate could have offered more. However it kept growing and displaying more complexity. So it ends with a great score, even though it could have higher with a bit more oomph and less oak. Still available from several retailers. There version with Dugald is now available from The Whisky Exchange.