Fèis Ìle Through a Friend’s Eyes
An unforgettable trip to Islay, exceptional drams and a Laphroaig Day to remember. Discover last year's Win a Trip to Islay winner's experience, in his own words.
Don't just take our word for it
Last year's Win a Trip to Islay winner, Andrew Aitken, spent Laphroaig Day on Islay with his friend. A tasting in the cellars with Distillery Manager George Campbell, followed by music, food and sunshine on the beach.
But don't just take our word for it. Here's what Andrew had to say about his experience.
Read his story below and explore the photos he captured during his unforgettable trip to Islay.
A Warm Welcome to Islay
I wish to thank everyone at Laphroaig for one of the most memorable few days of not just the last year but probably in the last 10 years.
I was fortunate to win the trip to Islay this year and it was remarkable.
The warmest week in Scotland was when we arrived. Picked up at the airport from the manager of the Machrie hotel just a few minutes' drive away, and what a hotel.
A Dram with George Campbell
The trip to Islay was all about Laphroaig day, and what a day this was. Arrived around 10am and taken straight to the cellars to meet the distillery manager George.
In this room we were treated to a range of 5 or 6 drams of some of the best whisky's Laphroaig has to offer, along with humour a story/description and tasting notes about them all from George.
In these couple of hour's tasting, I learned more than I have in the 30 years I have been drinking whisky.
A Laphroaig Day to Remember
After the tastings we went outside to the main party, music, food, sunshine and the beach, what else can anyone ask for apart from more whisky that was available onside.
This was one of the most unforgettable days of my life and will certainly be back to partake in this event for the unforeseeable future.
Memories That Last a Lifetime
The trip didn't end there as we had extra time over the day and next day so got to visit another distillery on the island and experience everything Islay must offer.
I just have to say that anyone that is wanting to go to a whisky festival, they must go to this as it is the most amazing time you will ever have.
Thank you, Laphroaig, George Campbell and all the team, for making this one of the best trips I have ever had.
Next Year, That Friend Could Be You
One Friend is going to Islay for Fèis Ìle 2027. Enter the sweepstake for your chance to be that Friend.
Entering is easy. Sign in, head to your account page, then find the sweepstake tile and enter.
Know someone who'd like to take part but isn't yet a Friend of Laphroaig? Not to worry. All they need to do is sign up as a Friend, and they're more than welcome to take part too.
Entries close on 1 November 2026.
WIN A TRIP TO ISLAY 2027
Inspired by Andrew's story? We're giving one Friend of Laphroaig the chance to experience Fèis Ìle 2027. From unforgettable drams to the atmosphere of Laphroaig Day, there's plenty to look forward to.
GOOD WHISKY. BETTER COMPANY.
For a limited time, enjoy two complimentary nosing glasses with every purchase of Càirdeas 2026.
Simply sign in and add Càirdeas 2026 to your cart. No code required.
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