I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Barry MacAffer, former Distillery Manager at Laphroaig, for an insightful conversation about his career, the legacy of the distillery, and the community that has grown around this iconic Scotch whisky.
A Journey to Laphroaig
Barry’s path to becoming the manager of Laphroaig is nothing short of fascinating. We talked about how he initially found his way into the whisky industry, the challenges and rewards of his journey, and how he navigated his way to managing one of the most famous distilleries in the world.
Why Laphroaig is So Special
We also dove deep into what makes Laphroaig unique. Is it the signature peat, the history, or something intangible? Barry shared his thoughts on why Laphroaig stands apart and how it became more than just a whisky — a brand with a passionate global following.
Building a Community
Beyond the whisky itself, we explored how Laphroaig has cultivated such a loyal community over the years. From the Friends of Laphroaig initiative to the distillery’s fan-centric approach, Barry reflected on how this sense of connection has made Laphroaig more than just a drink, but a lifestyle and a shared passion.
Looking Ahead: Barry’s Next Chapter
Though Barry has stepped down from his role at Laphroaig, he’s far from done with whisky. In our conversation, he hints at what’s next for him and how he plans to stay connected to the industry he loves.
A Personal Favorite
No whisky conversation is complete without a little taste talk! I couldn’t resist asking Barry about his favorite Laphroaig expression. His answer might surprise you! Watch the full interview below to hear Barry MacAffer’s thoughts on his career, Laphroaig’s impact, and what the future holds.