NEW YORK, NY (June 23, 2026) — Laphroaig, the world’s number-one selling Islay single malt Scotch whisky, has joined forces with iconic cult actor Willem Dafoe to launch a highly anticipated, limited-edition expression: “Willem by Willem.” Marking the latest chapter in Laphroaig’s global “Unphorgettable” campaign, this rare 14-Year-Old Oloroso cask-finished single malt breaks all industry conventions. Mirroring the film industry phrase “no notes”—signifying a performance so flawless it requires no direction—the bottle has been launched completely devoid of official tasting notes. Instead, the brand is challenging whisky drinkers to interpret the complex flavor profile themselves.
Selected for Pure Curiosity
Dafoe, who joined the brand as a Friend of Laphroaig last September, selected the liquid alongside Laphroaig’s Senior Whisky Maker, Sarah Dowling. Rather than analyzing technical data or distillation specs, Dafoe chose the specific cask variation that sparked his imagination.
“I made my final choice based on the whisky that evoked the most curiosity about its taste – something I still can’t put my finger on, but that’s half the fun. For me, when I sip ‘Willem by Willem’ I experience…you tell me. For all who drink it, I hope the whisky will inspire discussion.”
Star Alongside Willem Dafoe
To support the release, Laphroaig has launched an unprecedented global contest. Fans are invited to submit their personal interpretations of the whisky’s flavor through any creative medium—including poetry, sketches, or short video clips. The individual who submits the most original submission will win the opportunity to co-star alongside Willem Dafoe in his next short film with Laphroaig, scheduled to shoot later this year.
“This whisky launch needed to reflect the bold and undefinable character of Laphroaig and Willem Dafoe,” said Kirsteen Beeston, global marketing director of Scotch and Irish at Suntory Global Spirits. “What better way to do this than put the power in whisky fans’ hands, or tastebuds in this instance. We look forward to hearing and seeing what they make of the taste and drinking experience and watch this space for more to come from Laphroaig and Dafoe.”
“Our experience with whisky is so personal, from how we drink it – whether neat, with water or in a cocktail – to the different opinions about its taste,” added Senior Whisky Maker Sarah Dowling. “It was important to Willem and me that we selected a rich and complex spirit, unmistakably Laphroaig, but which allowed people to interpret and enjoy it in their own way.The whisky speaks for itself, and I look forward to hearing what it is saying to people around the world.”
Pricing and Strategic Retail Availability
Bottled at a robust 53.7% ABV, this heavily peated, Oloroso sherry cask-finished Islay malt commands a Suggested Retail Price (SRP) of $156 USD.
“Willem by Willem” is rolling out now across premium retail storefronts and online via ReserveBar. Whisky fans looking to submit their flavor interpretations for a chance to star in the upcoming film can officially enter via the Laphroaig website. The global contest will accept entries until the submission window closes on August 2, 2026.
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