Laphroaig Releases Ultra-Aged Book Three In Hunter Series

Beam Suntory’s Laphroaig has announced the third installment in the fascinating Ian Hunter Series, ‘Book Three: Source Protector.’ The 33-year-old non-chill ­filtered whisky is fully matured in ex-bourbon barrels, which allows the iconic peated characteristics of Laphroaig to shine through and continues to honor the legacy of the icon and last founding member of the Johnston family to run the Laphroaig Distillery.

The Ian Hunter Story consists of five annual releases, set into beautifully crafted books that document the story of Ian’s incredibly rich legacy. Every year a new chapter is unveiled, uncovering the extensive history behind Laphroaig and the characters who created it.

Following the success of the inaugural Book One: ‘Unique Character,’ Book Two’s ‘Building an Icon’ incredibly rare liquid quickly became a highly sought-after collectable last year from whisky enthusiasts all over the world. Book Three’s ‘Source Protector,’ the 33-Year-Old Vintage 1987 ex-bourbon barrel matured single malt, remains no exception.

This collection is unlike any other and one that is sure to be treasured by passionate Laphroaig connoisseurs across the world.

Ian Hunter: Book Three    

Book One reflected on Ian Hunter’s formidable character. Book Two dedicated itself to the hours of tireless work Ian Hunter committed to the Laphroaig brand whilst at the helm. Book Three charts the history of the Kilbride Stream, as well as Ian’s role in ensuring this source of raw beauty was protected, not to mention the crucial role it played in keeping the spirit of Laphroaig alive.

After a long running dispute, Ian took a case to court, before eventually scrambling to buy the land all the way up to the source of the Kilbride Stream, converting the distillery to steam and thereby ensuring that it was less reliant on water for power. The water was secure, and so was Laphroaig’s future as a single malt. Ian’s legacy of protection has now passed on to the Friends of Laphroaig, whose plots of land stand guard at the water’s edge. 

The 2021 release of The Ian Hunter Series is a 33-year-old non-chill ­filtered whisky with creamy licorice notes, fully matured in ex-bourbon barrels so the original character shines through. The third book of Ian’s story is dedicated to his tireless work in protecting what he believed was worth fighting for, and what consumers enjoy as Laphroaig to this day.

“We are thrilled to share the release of Laphroaig’s newest expression and third installment of the rare and collectable Ian Hunter Story; the third book in our series pays homage to Ian Hunter’s unparalleled dedication to protecting Laphroaig’s lifeblood – it’s water source,” said Simon Brooking, Beam Suntory’s Global Scotch Ambassador. “The 33-year-old whisky matured in ex-bourbon barrels is a unique peated single malt whisky, making the release a wonderful addition to Laphroaig’s rich collection.”

The limited-edition whisky is available on Laphroaig.com and specialty retailers for an SRP of $1,250.