Laphroaig Comparison

A side by side look at few offerings from a famous Islay distillery.

Laphroaig 10 y.o. (40%abv)

A classic. Salty and medicinal (iodine) nose with hints of the full on peaty flavour and earth notes to be found in the mouth. A long lingering smoky finish.

Score: 7.0

Laphroaig Triple Wood  no age (48% abv)

After the initial aging in ex bourbon barrels this whisky spends time in quarter casks and is then finished in a sherry cask.  The quarter casks provides more oak and the sherry casks softer fruity notes to go with traditional peat. This is immediately noticeable on the nose which is sweet vanillins and raisins while the peat is still present in the background. Peat is at the forefront of the plate but gradually softens and allows caramel and fruit to shine through, these are all tied together with a lovely viscous nutty mouth feel.  The complexity gives this dram wonderful length that is good to savour.

Score: 7.9

Laphroaig  Quarter Cask (48%abv)

This time only the quarter cask aging. The two big players in whisky, Peat and Oak. Initially a quite cooling and menthol feel was experienced by some members. Perhaps a return of some iodine or something from the greater exposure to the quarter casks, maybe just an initially shorter feel after the triple wood. Hints of tropical fruit and coconut on the nose. A complex palate as the oak and peat both try to grab your attention. Nice finish with smoke and some warm spice.

Score: 7.2

(this was a quite polarised vote)

Next meeting will be Wednesday the 29th Oct 6.30 pm at Suite 1, 17 Peel St, South Brisbane

See ya there,
Matt