[53.5%・18 Years Old・Distilled in 1979・Bottled in 1997・Clydesdale Bottling・Cask No. 5967・Single Cask Release of 222 Bottles]
Nose:
The heavy cowshed presence is surprising, hints of coal smoke, apple wood incense lingering above a wholesome, oily base of overripe pears, honey and malt. Traces of iodine, white pepper and aged ginger cubes vaguely surface from the background.
Palate & Finish:
Certainly fares more like a period Laphroaig on the palate, a stunning mic of vibrantly juicy dates and earthy tar and peat. Greek style sweet almond shortbread cookies and marzipan pears, with this striking sake elegance.
Grilled bell peppers bring about a subtler tail, dried fruits dipped in honey with some burnt toffee coated walnuts and chocolate drizzled coconut chips.
Thoughts:
Stunning aromas followed by an exquisite delivery.
Quite unlike the typical vintage Laphroaig expressions from the late 1970s, early 1980s in that it fares more like a Brora of all things.
Which is to say that I adore it thoroughly.
☆☆ [Highly Recommended]
-Nicholas
WhiskNick 