Laphroaig 15yo Islay Single Malt Scotch: A few weeks ago we posted a little summary about Laphroaig’s 200th anniversary and along with that we also promised tasting notes of their Limited Edition release of the 15-year-old expression to celebrate this momentous occasion. Founded in 1815, in Port Ellen, Argyll, Isle of Islay, Laphroaig are famed for their peated Scotch whisky, just like most of their fellow Island Scotch distillers. Laphroaig is known for being sweet, spicy and peaty, and this is the epitome of Islay Scotch whisky. The Limited Edition release is more of a revival really, as Laphroaig 15yo, which apparently just so happens to be the favourite whisky of Prince Charles, was first launched in 1980. It was discontinued in 2009 and replaced by an 18 Year Old, however, now we can all enjoy it once again.
On the nose: you’ll get a very intense waft of herbs, peat and the strangest aroma, like that of shoe polish. This will be followed up by the smell of sweet oranges, lemon zest, honey and vanilla pod. Some spicy notes start to emerge in the form of fennel seed, cinnamon and tarragon. As the peat subsides notes of butterscotch, lavender, a hint of marzipan and a lovely oily note manifest. On the palate: that lovely sweet note of honey and oranges are apparent, alongside those herbs and suggestion of tobacco. It has a lovely oily texture, however, the peat is a lot softer in the palate. Those spicy notes start to emerge, as well as the vanilla, marzipan and cinnamon. Finishing off the palate is a note like that of salty caramel, with a hint of peat. The finish: medium, sweet, smooth, with lingering aniseed and whispers of peat!
The verdict: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I really do appreciate a good peated Islay Scotch whisky and this dear readers is nothing short of stunning (no wonder why it’s Prince Charles’ favourite whisky). The nose to palate is sheer perfection, with subtle hints of peat that are never overbearing, alongside sweet notes of oranges and the likes. This is a dram that is as effortlessly brilliant as it is balanced. With an ABV of 43%, in my opinion, you don’t really need to add any water. However, if you require water then only add a small amount but to experience the plethora of notes on offer I’d suggest leaving the dram to breathe for approximately 3 – 5 minutes before indulging.
Laphroaig 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky can be found at any well-stocked whisky shop or online for approximately £80 but admittedly it is slowly getting hard to find.
For more information on this 200th Anniversary Limited Edition 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch, visit the official Laphroaig website.
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