Laphroaig 1996 cask #1983 (Single Malts of Scotland)

This 13 year-old Laphroaig 1996 was part of the latest batch of Single Malts of Scotland releases. It comes from a single bourbon hogshead.

Laphroaig 13yo 1996 (46%, Single Malts of Scotland 2009, cask #1983, 280 btl.)

Nose: rather mellow. Wood smoke mixed with lime juice. Some iodine and marzipan. Typical although fruitier and sweeter than usual, very integrated overall. Water intensifies the sweetness and shows some slightly floral notes.

Mouth: very fruity and sweet again. I’m not a smoker, but I guess this tastes like citrus candy after a good cigar. Hints of black pepper and almonds.

Finish: sweet and ashy with notes of liquorice and a gently bitter edge (over-infused Lapsang).

Not a wham-bam Laphroaig but quite subtle, sweet and very drinkable. Available from TWE (€ 55).

Score: 85/100