In a moment that will go down in Islay whisky history, a bottle of Laphroaig 40-Year-Old Capsule has sold for an astonishing £125,000 at the Distillers One of One auction — setting a new record for the distillery.
The auction, held at the stately Hopetoun House in Scotland on October 10th, brought together collectors and whisky lovers from around the world. In partnership with Sotheby’s, the event celebrated the rarest and most exceptional whiskies ever bottled — with all proceeds going to support disadvantaged young people across Scotland.
A Legacy from the 1980s
Distilled in the early 1980s, this remarkable single malt captures a defining era in Laphroaig’s history — one of grit, resilience, and unyielding character. Few casks from this period remain, making the 40-Year-Old Capsule a true time capsule of Islay’s whisky-making heritage.
Bottled at 46.5% ABV, the spirit spent 26 years maturing in oloroso sherry-seasoned and ex-bourbon American oak hogsheads, before being expertly married in oak until June 2022. The result is a whisky layered with rich honey, baked apple, fig, and charred citrus on the nose, leading to a sweet, spiced palate of liquorice root, cranberries, and orange marmalade, and finishing with a long, smoky warmth reminiscent of Lapsang Souchong tea.
A Striking Piece of Craftsmanship
Just as impressive as the liquid inside is the presentation itself. The whisky is housed in a flawless green crystal decanter, hand-blown by Glencairn Crystal, and sealed with a platinum-plated capsule — an embodiment of the bold, uncompromising spirit that defines Laphroaig.
Dr. Calum Fraser, Master Blender for Scotch & Irish whiskies at Suntory Global Spirits, reflected on the whisky’s significance:
“The Laphroaig Capsule is a living archive of whisky making on Islay over forty years ago. It reflects everything that makes this spirit spectacular — from the island’s peat and salty air, to the years spent resting in oak. I’m so proud it generated such interest at the auction; it’s a testament to how special this whisky is.”
Whisky for a Worthy Cause
The hammer fell at £100,000, with a final price of £125,000 after Sotheby’s buyer’s premium. Every penny of the hammer price will go directly to The Distillers’ Charity Youth Action Fund, helping young people across Scotland gain education, vocational training, and life skills — including distillation training — to unlock brighter futures.
Daryl Haldane, Private Client Director at Suntory Global Spirits, said:
“This auction unites the Scotch whisky industry like no other. It celebrates the artistry behind rare spirits while making a positive impact on communities. To see Laphroaig join this event with such a powerful debut is incredibly special.”
About the Distillers One of One
Launched in 2021, the Distillers One of One has quickly become a cornerstone of whisky philanthropy. To date, the auction series has raised over £4.3 million, supporting thousands of young people through the Youth Action Fund. Each lot is a one-of-a-kind creation — never to be repeated — representing the pinnacle of Scotch whisky craftsmanship and generosity.
For over two centuries, Laphroaig has remained true to its Islay roots, crafting whisky that’s as bold and distinctive as the island itself. With this latest record-breaking sale, the distillery not only celebrates its 210-year legacy but also continues to shape a future as meaningful as its past.
Tasting Notes – Laphroaig Capsule 40-Year-Old (46.5% ABV)
Nose: Soft peach, baked apple, rich manuka honey, charred orange rind, tropical fruit, fig, milk chocolate orange, and star anise.
Palate: Sweet and voluptuous with floral spice, aniseed, liquorice root, blackcurrant, stewed cranberries, and homemade orange marmalade.
Finish: Sweet yet peppery, with a long, signature smoky note evoking Lapsang Souchong tea.
To learn more about Laphroaig and its legendary whiskies, visit www.laphroaig.com.
