Known for its rich Scottish heritage and peaty profile, Laphroaig whisky is hosting an exclusive event in partnership with The Hāngi Master, Rewi Spraggon.
Tales of Peat, Salt and Fire will be a unique drinking and dining experience at Mechanics Bay on the Waitematā Harbour, a costal location similar to Islay, where Laphroaig has been distilled for over 200 years.
Guests will enjoy an extensive menu embodying Laphroaig’s distinctive flavours, a suite of paired Laphroaig drams and cocktails with a guided tasting and a gift bag to take home.
The dishes will be cooked onsite using the ancient Māori practice of hāngi, which, like Laphroaig, uses elements of earth, salt and fire and is rooted in deep tradition.
Canapés will comprise locally sourced fresh seafood, meat, and produce, including Clevedon oysters with chilli, lime, and Laphroaig, smoked cream Pāua, Kingfish ceviche with coconut and cucumber, Laphroaig smoked lamb rack, buffalo wings, and pork belly bao.
Mains include beef cheek with pumpkin, pork belly with apple caramel, vegetable mélange, and char-grilled broccolini, while desserts feature honey mascarpone with a Laphroaig-infused steam pudding and Kawakawa ice cream with lemon curd and smashed meringue.
“For me, cooking is all about bringing people together for a memorable experience. There is something special about sharing a great meal with friends and family,” said Spraggon.
“It’s my passion to hold to the ancient traditions of hāngi cooking. I was taught by my father, who was taught by my mum’s father and ancestors before – hāngi masters of the past. Some of the rocks I use today have been in my family for over 80 years and have fed thousands of people.”
Laphroaig brand ambassador Rory Donnelly will also take attendees through a guided tasting of the single malt whisky while sharing stories about the brand and the bold flavour characters.
The event takes place on Saturday, the 28th of October, with tickets costing $220 per person available at Eventbrite.
