Two hundred years ago, malt whisky was carried through Scotland in small casks that were easily transported on the backs of pack horses. As transportation methods improved, Scottish distillers turned to more economical larger casks, which became today's uniform standard for maturation. Until now. Laphroaig realized that using the original small cask maturation process would be an innovative way to add new character. Laphroaig Quarter Cask is handcrafted to deliver a new expression of Laphroaig's powerful, smoky flavors with smoother, creamier, and more complex notes. Laphroaig Quarter Cask is initially matured in American oak bourbon barrels, and then is transferred into new, specially produced quarter-casks for a final seven-to-eight month period. As a result, the maturing spirit receives 30% more contact with wood than other single malts aged in larger, more commonly used barrels. The additional wood influence imparts a very special character to the spirit. The result is a single malt with the unmistakable peat smoke that is so unique to Laphroaig, and a creamy, coconut-like nose with a soft sweetness and a hint of salt.