Laphroaig is giving its founder Donald Johnston a shout out in the inaugural debut of its new series Strong Characters.

The Islay distillery traces its history back to 1815 when it was founded by Donald and Alexander Johnston. Unfortunately for Donald, he would not live to see the distillery's success as he would find his demise in 1847, tragically falling into a vat of boiling malt.

Fun Fact: Donald was also the son of neighbouring Lagavulin Distillery's founder.

On the label above featuring an art print of Donald stirring what looks like that very vat of boiling malt, you'll notice the years 1810 to 1847 - it's worth pointing out that some folks say that Laphroaig's early years go even further back to 1810 when Donald and Alexander were already farming in the area.

Nevertheless Donald's great-grandson, Ian Hunter, would prove to be an astute businessman who laid the groundwork for the distillery to gain popularity, with a Laphroaig single malt being issued as early as the 1920's. 

With all that said, the new Laphroaig Donald Johnston Strong Characters expression will feature a 33 Year Old single malt whisky from the distillery, bottled at 43.8% ABV.