Laphroaig 11yo (46%, MMcD, Bourbon/Paulliac, ACE’d in Chateau Lafite Casks, 1400 Bts.)

An unusual color to say the least however the nose is very peated and strong with some unusual notes that are quite simply unidentifiable but not negative in nature. There is also some cracked black pepper but the maritime notes (if ever present) have packed up and left. To the hell with it, onto the taste is surprisingly gentle at first and then the peat arrives but without too much fuss. A little Marmite and sourness hides in the back ground. Also a little cream soda and some fruit… quite frankly it’s all a little odd. The finish is warming and long however the odd notes as described in the taste linger but there is a late redemption as the peat reek struggles free of the wine cloak dragging some nice malt with it.

Mostly likely a grand dram prior to the ACE-ing….

$79

Score 70 points

Part two of five featuring whiskies that are peated; ‘Peat Week’!