Dram Review: Berry’s Best Laphroaig 1997 Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of La Maison du Whisky

[52.2%・18 Years Old・Distilled in 1997 ・Bottled in 2016・ Berry Bros & Rudd Bottling for La Maison du Whisky・Cask No. 66・ Single Cask Bottling of 240 Bottles]

Nose:

Ooo ah, a robust explosion of savoury spices and confectionary notes, brine and pepper, ground cumin and iodine alongside apple compote atop honeyed granola, a hint of heather flowers giving the pleasurable floral aromas in the background.

Palate & Finish:

Ahhh, such strength in the dram, a solid oomph of peat with a fiery underbelly, oily caramel and sticky honey with orchard fruits, syrupy pineapples and a touch of aloe Vera.

The dram closes out with earthy coffee ground and ample chocolate dust, extending long into a finish of rugged seaweed.

Thoughts:

An excitement to the senses, equal parts fiery, aggressive peat and soothing, rewarding fruits.

Sometimes you just need a dram like this to carry on, glimpses of peace amidst a ferocious war.

☆ ☆ [Highly Recommended]

-Nicholas