Introduction
Longrow is a name that’s earned my respect over time. I’ve always appreciated how it manages to separate itself from other peated whiskies – bolder than most mainland options, but with deeper richness than many Islay malts. So when I saw the 2025 edition of the Longrow 100 Proof available, I didn’t hesitate. I was particularly curious to see how the cask strength amplified the core Longrow profile – would it lean heavy into the smoke, or reveal more of the underlying character?
Nose
Right out of the glass, the smoke is firm, but not overwhelming. It’s more of a dry, earthy smoke than a medicinal or rubbery one – think burnt twigs and old chimneys. Beneath that, there's a salty edge that reminds me of sea air clinging to wet rocks. I also noticed a distinct note of leathery tobacco, followed by a touch of citrus peel once it opened up a bit. There’s definitely a denseness to the aromas, and a kind of musty warehouse characteristic that suggests long-aged wood and dusty sherry casks. Water softens things slightly, bringing out more sweetness – caramel and faint stewed fruits.
Palate
At full strength, it arrives hot, so I had to pause and let it settle. The texture is oily and mouthcoating, which helped carry the flavours – and there’s no shortage of those. Initially, it’s all about the soot and barbecue charcoal. Underneath that layer, there’s surprisingly rich fruitiness – dark cherries and maybe even some fig. A touch of salt and pepper follows quickly, along with roasted chestnuts and aged oak. The sherry influence adds body, but it never gets too sweet. Adding a few drops of water tames the alcohol and lets the nuttier and maltier notes rise. It’s bold but surprisingly balanced for such a big whisky.
Finish
The finish is as long as I expected – smoky, yes, but it doesn't just stop there. It drifts toward salted dark chocolate, with some drying oak at the back of the tongue. There's a slight tannic grip, followed by a warming chili pepper sensation toward the end. I like how the smoke gradually fades rather than lingering abrasively – it allows the richer cask-driven flavours to stretch out and leave a lasting impression.
Price and Value
As far as cask strength single malts go, especially from a well-respected name like Longrow, this 100 Proof release lands at a reasonable price point. It’s not inexpensive, but considering the complexity and strength, it does feel fair. You’re getting an unfiltered, full-flavoured whisky with plenty of substance and a clear identity. For those who value traditional production and heavyweight character, it’s a solid investment.
Background
Longrow is produced at the Springbank Distillery in Campbeltown – a region with a long, storied whisky history but only a handful of active distilleries today. Longrow was originally created to showcase a heavily peated style distinct from Springbank’s usual profile. Everything from distillation to bottling is done on site, and this particular expression – the 2025 edition of Longrow 100 Proof – is matured in a mix of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, bottled at cask strength without chill-filtration or colour added.
The “100 Proof” label refers to the old British measuring system – in modern terms, the strength is 57.1% ABV. That strength definitely makes its presence known, but in a deliberate way, where all the foundational components support it.
Final Notes
Would I buy this bottle again? I think I would, though I’d likely stash it for cooler months or for evenings that call for a rugged dram with some weight behind it.
Is it suited for someone just getting into peated whisky? Honestly, it might be a bit much for first-timers. The combination of high ABV and bold smoke could be overwhelming unless you’ve already started exploring more assertive malts.
As for the kind of moment it suits – this isn't a casual, sunny afternoon whisky. It fits better by the fire, after dinner, with time and space to concentrate on it.
Compared to other Campbeltown malts, Longrow 100 Proof feels more intense and raw, but still shares that signature maritime and mineral character. It's one of the more distinctive whiskies I’ve had from the region, and a worthy pick if you’re after something with depth and structure.