Laphroaig is so often referred to as the love-it-or-hate-it whisky that it's become almost obligatory to mention the fact in any review of this malt. I'll make no exception - Laphroaig indeed is the whisky which tends to have people split into two camps. So Laphroaig-haters beware, here comes another one for the opposition!
What probably puts many people off in Laphroaig is the taste that can be described as medicinal that is present (though not dominant) in the whisky. Then again, good little boys like me always take their medicine gladly! :-)
Laphroaig is one of the Islay malts, Islay being a small island off the west coast of Scotland. The characteristic taste you associate with Islay malts is that of peat and smoke. Also a certain level of saltiness is present in many of the fine products of the island. I find that many of the best whiskies come from Islay, or one of the other islands along the Scottish coast.
True to the Islay spirit, Laphroaig is a whisky with character. It is actually the most complex of the Islay whiskies.
On to the tasting then. Of course when we taste whiskies, we use a tulip or cognac glass - as the liquid offers most aroma and taste when warm, we want a thin glass to let the heat from our hands seep in. You add a drop of water to "open up" the whisky - and yes, it does work, it's not just some snobbish ritual. And don't you even dare to think about the word "ice" in connection with scotch - you risk getting smitten down where you stand by a bunch angry whisky gods...
Aroma
straight: Intense, very peaty and smoky, complex. A hint of iodine.
a drop of water added: Softer, still smoky and peaty, tar definitely present. Also a slightly floral, chemical scent can be detected.
Flavour
Starts out with a hint of sweetness and medicinal tastes, followed by strong smoke and peat. Very slightly salty. Feels pleasant and dry in the mouth. Long, pleasing, slightly "burnt" aftertaste, medicinal notes, predominated by smoke before waning off. Entices and dares you to take another sip.
Conclusion
While not near as good as it's heavenly older brother, the 15 year old Laphroaig, the 10 year old is still in my books a formidable contender for the best whisky in its age group. It's also not a very expensive whisky for its quality - you can find plenty of less impressive malts that show a lot less mercy on your wallet.
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(If you are interested in reading a bit more about whisky, and why you like it even if you think you don't, please see my essay at http://www.epinions.com/content_881369220 )
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