Laphroaig is an Islay single malt scotch whisky distillery. It is named for the area of land at the head of Loch Laphroaig on the south coast of the Isle of Islay. The distillery and brand are owned and operated by Beam Suntory, the American subsidiary of Japan’s Suntory Holdings. The Laphroaig distillery was established in 1825 by Donald and Alexander Johnston and is the only whisky to carry the Royal Warrant of the Prince of Wales, which was awarded in person during a visit to the distillery in 1994. The 15-year-old was reportedly the prince’s favourite Scotch whisky.

It’s one of the big three heavily-peated southern Islay malts, alongside Lagavulin and Ardbeg. The histories of Lagavulin and Laphroaig have been closely tied together, with Lagavulin said to have been founded by Alex and Donald’s father, John. Laphroaig is loved by those who enjoy its medicinal, smoky flavour and looked on in bewilderment by those who don’t, it remains one of the most popular whiskies amongst aficionados and bloggers alike.