Although many people refuse the smell and taste of peat, I count myself among those who cannot wait to open such a bottle. The risk of tasting is always that the intense smoke flavor covers other notes and you are missing one or the other treasure. I think, however, getting some balance into this is the art of a master distiller. If you manage to balance peat and other distinctive flavors, then you have already done a very significant step towards a high-quality spirit.

With years of experience in distilling, the Laphroaig 10 Years Old comes very close to the above mentioned result. It also shows that the famous Islay distillery can easily produce high-quality Single Malts in every price range. In my opinion, the Laphroaig 10 Years Old is a prime example for quality does not necessarily need to cost a lot. So if you are into intensive peat experiences, I can recommend this Scotch most warmly.

There is one particular thing in Laphroaig’s portfolio that I find quite interesting. Even with very little money you can clearly experience the difference between the 40% by volume Laphroaig 10 Years Old and the 55.7% by volume Laphroaig 10 Years Old Cask Strength. The characteristics of alcohol as a flavor carrier show up very obviously right here. Although both Single Malts are excellent, I would still tend to the cask strength bottling. Although it takes a few drops of water, it is a much more intense flavor.

The Laphroaig 10 Years Old has a golden-brown color and sprays in an incredible peat aroma when you open the bottle. It is recommendable to let this dram rest for a few minutes before tasting, so the content can “breathe” a little. In fact the flavor is very mild and characterized by intense and sweet peat. In addition to a subtle touch of salt, it is mainly floral notes that shape the nosing of the Laphroaig 10 Years Old. In the mouth, the peat was striking as expected and in addition to the recurring floral aromas, you can notice licorice and a pleasant oiliness. Even the subsequent finish is not to be despised, which is positively mild and characterized by remarkably long-lasting peat. However, it is, as mentioned above, not as complex as the Laphroaig Cask Strength. (Image: whiskybase.com)

Details:

Type: Single Malt Whisky

Age: 10 years

Alcohol: 40% by volume

Region: Isle of Islay, Scotland

Bottler: Distillery Laphroaig / Beam Global

Score: 8 / 10

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