Laphroaig’s annual “Friendship” release is a triple-wood Single Malt worth waiting for.

Laphroaig distillery was founded in 1815 by Donald and Alexander Johnston and is located in Port Ellen on Islay. For a long while there’s been frenzy for Laphroaig’s Scotch. Rumor has it that Prince Charles of Wales himself is a big fan of the brand. But no matter what, Laphroaig is the Islay Single Malt by which all others are judged. They are the standard-bearers for the hearty, smoky style that Islay is famous for. Their core line up has no fewer than a dozen Single Malt drams plus a host of special releases and travel retail specialty editions.

Laphroaig has had a special “Friends of Laphroaig” program since 1994. Fans register and get special visiting rights and offers. Well, the word “Càirdeas” is Gaelic for “friendship,” and each year the distillery has issued a limited edition “Càirdeas” Islay Single Malt that is normally just available to registered “Friends of Laphroaig.” But this is your chance to get a sample of this special dram for yourself. Laphroaig Càirdeas Triple Wood Cask Strength is aged first in ex-Bourbon casks, then in quarter casks, then in Oloroso Sherry casks. The combination develops a lot of deep, rich flavors and aromas delivered at 59.5% ABV.