The Shout Magazine (New Zealand)

When hāngi and whisky unite…

The Hāngi Master, Rewi Spraggon

Laphroaig whisky, renowned for its Scottish heritage and peaty profile, is hosting an exclusive event this month in partnership with The Hāngi Master, Rewi Spraggon.

“Tales of Peat, Salt and Fire” is a unique drinking and dining experience at Mechanics Bay on the Waitematā Harbour in Auckland, a coastal location taking inspiration from Islay where Laphroaig has been distilled for more than 200 years.

Hosted by chef Rewi, the evening will include extensive menu that embodies Laphroaig’s distinctive flavours, plus a suite of paired Laphroaig drams and cocktails.

The selection of dishes will be cooked onsite in a hāngi.

Rewi says the event promises to be an experience that transports guests to a world where the land meets the sea, putting a uniquely Kiwi lens on the strong flavour profile Laphroaig is known for.

“For me, cooking is all about bringing people together for a memorable experience.

“It’s my passion to hold true 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,” he says.

“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.

“From its humble farm beginnings in 1815 to today, the secret to Laphroaig’s flavour can be found in the essence of Islay itself—peat,” he says.

“This, married with the salty notes from the Atlantic Ocean and cold smoking of the barley, gives the whisky its iconic taste.”

Event details:
WHEN: Saturday October 28th 2023, 6.30pm – 9.30pm
WHERE: Mechanics Bay Event Space, 1 Solent Street, Auckland
TICKETS: $220 per person available here.

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