We welcome back Balcones Distilling's Emma Crandall to explore the world of Laphroaig with Whiskey Provisioner's Richard Amiro and West China Tea's So-Han. Emma and So-Han share their personal journeys with Laphroaig, a beloved Islay single malt known for its distinctive smoky and peaty character. We delve into two expressions: the classic Laphroaig 10 Year Old and the newer Laphroaig Elements 1.0. Emma explains how the Elements 1.0 showcases experimentation with mashing and fermentation styles, using different types of wort and mash tuns to create a unique expression that remains true to Laphroaig's signature style. As we compare the two whiskies side by side, we uncover intriguing differences. The Elements 1.0 presents a lighter, crisper, and greener profile with hints of vanilla, buttercream, and a delicate smoke that becomes almost spice-like. In contrast, the Laphroaig 10 offers a more pronounced iodine note and a classic Laphroaig character. So-Han pairs the whiskies with a 2009 Cloudburst aged Pu'er tea, providing an earthy foundation to complement the smoky notes in the Laphroaig expressions. Throughout the session, we explore the concept of a mash tun and its role in the whisky-making process, drawing parallels to tea brewing. We also touch on the joy of discovering new dimensions in familiar whiskies and the importance of revisiting spirits that may not have appealed to us initially. The conversation takes a charming turn as So-Han shares the story behind the Chinese tea-drinking custom of tapping one's fingers to express gratitude, a tale involving an emperor in disguise and his quick-thinking bodyguard. Join us for a delightful exploration of Laphroaig, the evolution of our whisky preferences, and the enchanting traditions that make the world of tea and whisky so captivating. ⸺ credits ⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺ Richard Amiro - host http://richardamiro.com So-Han Fan - guest https://www.youtube.com/@TeaHouseGhost - https://westchinatea.com/ Cory Cranfill - a really helpful guy  https://youtube.com/@shedlogic - https://www.righttoolmedia.com Emma Crandall - guest https://www.instagram.com/emmaacrandall/ https://www.instagram.com/balconesdistilling/ ⸺ socials ⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺⸺ Website: https://whiskeyprovisioner.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/WhiskeyProvis TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whiskeyprovisioner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyProvisioner Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskey_provisioner