Laphroaig

An iconic Islay whisky that every whisky drinker has to try, even if you are not a fan of smokier malts. The distillery was officially founded in 1815 but like many on Islay it most likely accomodated illegal distillers before that date. The Johnston brothers (Alexander and Donald) where the founders and it remained in their family until it was sold in 1954. The new owner was Bessie Williamson, who had been the company manager and was left the distillery by one of the Johnston's childless decendants. Bessie was one of the first powerful women in Scottish distilling and was apparently a top notch salesperson, she remained the manager until her retirement in 1972. Since the 1960s ownership of Lahproaig has changed on several occasions and it is now in the hands of Suntory (who also own Bowmore Distillery on Islay). The malt at Laphroaig is peated to a high level, and there are 3 was stills and 4 spirit stills. Annual production is around 2,700,000 litres.