Enough old treasures for a while. This week we’ll focus on more mundane new releases.
Elements of Islay Lp6 is a first-fill matured Laphroaig, the latest in the Elements of Islay series from The Whisky Exchange (or rather its sister company Speciality Drinks).
Laphroaig Lp6
(51,3%, Elements of Islay 2015, 50 cl)
Nose: classic Laphroaig elements (profound smoke, dried kelp, iodine, eucalyptus) but also elegantly mixed with honey and vanilla. Nice hints of aromatic Szechuan pepper. Some peaches. A relatively mild nose.
Mouth: again some tarry smoke but also plenty of rounder notes. Vanilla syrup, hints of roasted pineapple. Hints of black olives and Mediterranean herbs. Although initially rather sweet, it becomes drier and more savoury, with liquorice roots and cloves.
Finish: long, on earthy smoke and liquorice, with just a hint of vanilla.
A big Laphroaig with two faces: a savoury, smoky side but also a rounder, fruitier character (especially if you add a bit of water). Around € 110. Available from TWE among others.
Score: 87/100