Indie Bottler Laphroaig week ….4 out of 4……concludes,

Laphroaig 16yo 1989/2008 (54.6%, SMWS of America 29.64, sherry)

What do we have from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society of America? A sherried Laphroaig no less and a decent cask at that.  As everybody understands, the peat reek effect does not increase with maturation but decreases over time; this can be some what of a surprise to new comers to the world of malt whisky, much like the fact that all scotch whisky (or new spirit) comes off the still colorless. Or the fact that there really isn’t a tooth fairy.

The nose is rich, complicated and oily; peat reek, diesel smoke and brine. Is it possible for the aroma of an Islay scotch whisky to improve on this? There’s also hints of muted Fisherman’s Friends, kippers and spicy oak but not overly dry (think of the three bears & porridge; just right!). A very different aroma to be sure…..The taste is sherried; sweet at first and then incredibly dry along with the afore mentioned oak and salt as well as some syrupy notes and even more peat reek. Peated malt. Absolutely marvelous. There is also a fresh orange juice vibrancy that is very refreshing. The finish is somewhat like being smacked about the face with a kipper; brief moments of the sea along with a shock every few seconds on either side of the face. Quite long, chewy peated malt and very much like the ocean….

Quite a different Laphroaig to say the least…..

US$130

Score 90 Points