Laphroaig 25 Year Old (2018)

The new 2018 edition of Laphroaig 25 Years was matured in ex-bourbon casks (earlier versions often had some sherry influence).

The last one I tried was the 2014 edition and that was rather excellent.

Laphroaig 25 yo Cask Strength
(52%, OB 2018)

Nose: rather mineral start, pretty punchy for such an old malt. Sunflower oil, ashy notes and carbon paper. Underneath there is a nice layer of grapefruits, lime and grilled pineapple – almost tropical. Also a buttery touch. Top notes of eucalyptus and sea spray. Burnt orange peel.

Mouth: very big, with minty smoke and medicinal notes. Lemons, grapefruits, brine and freshly crushed peppercorns. Still this slightly tropical, nicely fruity side. Oak char, some leafy notes towards the end.

Finish: long, on burnt grasses, cold smoke, roasted coffee beans and a honeyed fruity note.

Lovely elegance and punchy cask strength at the same time. The flavours are so nicely mingled and the tropical edge makes it truly great. There’s a new 30 year-old around the corner but this 25 would be hard to beat. A recommended release, rougly the same level as the 2014 in my book and still available from TWE and Master of Malt.

Score: 91/100