LAPHROAIG SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY AND WILLEM DAFOE UNITE TO CELEBRATE BOLD SPIRIT

Two of the world's most iconic characters collaborate in an 'unphorgettable' partnership, debuting with a short film reveal

ISLAY, Scotland, Sept. 23, 2025 — For over 200 years, Laphroaig has been unapologetically doing things differently. Today, continuing this uncompromising spirit, the distinctive Islay single malt has revealed a new partnership with cult actor, Willem Dafoe. The first of its kind in the distillery's history, the collaboration debuts with a short film titled 'The Taste', a global advertising campaign, and tease of a limited-edition whisky, all celebrating those who think differently and embrace a boldness of character.

In a sea of sameness, Dafoe and Laphroaig are globally renowned for their distinctive style. Neither have been afraid to stand out or go against the grain. It was only a matter of time before the pair embarked on this newfound friendship – one that continues to bring Laphroaig from its home, on a tiny corner of a Scottish island in the Inner Hebrides, to the world stage.

The partnership marks the latest instalment in the brand's 'Unphorgettable' campaign, which launched in 2024 and celebrates the unmistakable flavour of this iconic whisky, making it 'unphorgettable' to all who imbibe. 'The Taste' brings to life Dafoe's search to define Laphroaig's taste – something he can't quite put his finger on – revealing a cinematic exploration by Dafoe and a celebration of his inimitable character.

The whimsical film draws inspiration from unusual components in Dafoe's life and his thirst for immersing himself to get a taste of experiences. The opening scene tells the story of Dafoe remaining inside a wardrobe for two days as a child, to try and experience flying into space after watching astronauts going to the moon. With this individual and curious style, Dafoe seeks the words to describe the uniquely bold single malt, as well as reciting humorous descriptions submitted by some of the whisky's biggest fans – Friends of Laphroaig.

Laphroaig is no stranger to film. In the 1950s, the world of whisky was male dominated. Laphroaig was one of the only distilleries in the world to be owned and managed by a woman, the fearless First Lady of Scotch, Bessie Williamson. In a remote location with no cinema, access to film was limited so Williamson reimagined the malting floor of the distillery to host after-dark movie screenings, offering local islanders a window into Hollywood.

Continuing the legacy of women in whisky, Senior Whisky Maker for Laphroaig, Sarah Dowling, partnered closely with Dafoe on 'The Taste.' She says:

"When we tried to imagine Laphroaig as a human being, we immediately thought of Willem Dafoe. He is the very embodiment of our bold and distinctive spirit. It has been beyond exciting for me and the team to be a part of 'The Taste', and to get inside the hidden corners of Willem's brilliant mind. I wasn't expecting there to be so many synergies between his approach to craft and character as an actor, to my own as a whisky maker. I can't wait for the world to see what we have been creating together."

This partnership will also extend to a limited-edition product collaboration, set for release in 2026. Together with Dowling, Dafoe has developed a new whisky, that is now quietly maturing, steeped in the peat, smoke, salt and the surprising sweetness that infuses all Laphroaig whiskies.

To celebrate the global launch of 'The Taste', Laphroaig and Dafoe have partnered with The Barley Mow pub in Mayfair, London, which has been renamed as 'The Barley Dafoe' between 22 and 25 September. Attendees will be the first to sample a new one-of-a-kind cocktail, named Opposite Island and crafted to encapsulate the spirit of this partnership in a glass. This will be available at select bars worldwide over the coming months, allowing drinkers to experience a taste of the 'unphorgettable' for themselves.  

Watch the film and behind the scenes content on www.laphroaig.com and follow @laphroaig on Instagram for more information.

Laphroaig encourages responsible drinking. Always follow the DrinkSmart rules and drink in moderation.