Laphroaig 28 Year Old was a limited edition launched early 2018.
It was matured in quarter casks, bourbon barrels and Oloroso sherry butts, before being married in sherry casks for its final 12 months and being bottled at cask strength.
Laphroaig 28 yo (44,4%, OB 2018)
Nose: extra-mature in this case means relatively little peat. Instead we find marmalade and herbal teas, a little vanilla and freshness of thyme and eucalyptus. There’s some creamy vanilla and honey in the background, as well as pear compote. Light hints of pineapple, banana and guava too.
Mouth: similar sweet fruits (pears, green apples, yellow plum) but less exotic this time. Plenty of Mediterranean herbs again, light menthol. Marzipan, leathery notes, fading on dry leafy notes, walnuts and heather.
Finish: very long, with smoky oak, minty freshness, honey and a little salt.
I was able to compare with the Laphroaig 25 Year Old and while it is lower in alcohol and less peaty this is much richer and fruitier. Creamy fruits rather than exotic fruits. Both are really good, but this feels more old-style and gets my vote. Still available from Master of Malt and TWE has a sample if you like.
Score: 92/100