Or, "Crushed seashells? Now there's another thing we don't smell and taste... I mean, when did you last go down to seashore get down on hands and knees and start licking stones? Exactly. Me neither." Perfect Laphroaig!
You will probably not read this comment since it is an old video, but when I buy a laphroaig I sometimes pour a glass and then starts breathing it in heavily, nose straight down the glass, until the i almost lose the intence smells, the nose gets accoustomed to the smell, and then taste it. The taste changes alot and it feels alot more mild. It is a fun experiment that you ought to try.
The day I finally got to visit Laphroaig last May was unfortunately the same day my dad passed away. It was hard that I wasn't home but if you gave me a choice to be anywhere else in the whole world during that hard time it would be Islay and specifically Laphroaig. What a special place and a special distillery. Thanks for the good work Ralpy!
this was one of the first single malts I ever tried and for five years I refused to drink anything from Islay, gave it another shot a year ago and have had a bottle open ever since. I love the older Laphroaigs. thanks for another great review
I just finished up my first bottle of this wonderful Scotch whisky. I couldn't get enough of it. You're absolutely correct. You either love peated whisky or you don't. I love it!
Firstly I love your videos Ralfy and this is my first comment. I JUST bought a bottle of this whisky even though I watched your review ages ago. I am extremely upset about one thing.......that I procrastinated for as long as I did, I LOVE THIS STUFF! I can taste it forever after drinking it! Cheers! Boy am I late to the party or what?
It took about a half bottle to get used to it. Now, I really like it. If you like smoky campfires, aromatic pipe smoke or a good strong cup of Lapsang Souchong, then you'll like this after you get over the initial shock.
i tried this last year around summer time, bought another bottle and liked it but since it tastes like smoke i want to try drinking it during winter when it snows
My first peat experience,some years ago, after a suggestion of a friend of mine in order to get a bargain whiskey from an "obsolete" clearance of a S/M.When he asked for my "Review" i said "It's like drinking iodine in a chimney that used for smoked salmons"!! And i mention that because it's very important for the viewer to have some "proof" that his taste is in a similar track with the reviewer, so a common view establish a "trust" between them, and you are one (if not The) of the most reliable source for whiskey reviews on the internet(at least for me).Thank you Ralfy,keep up the excellent "work"!
I remember first smelling this after opening the bottle and thought, well that was a waste of 50 bucks. didnt touch it for a few months until I ran out of all my other whiskey and then it spoke to me like an omnipotent sentinel. favorite whiskey to this day
This vid is best accompanied by a dram of Laphroaig, in my case it is a Brodir, but in the essence it's the same, maybe just a bit more rounded. Great whisky
"Light" and "Heavy" ethanol I really enjoy your tasting videos, however having watched your review 575 (Lophroig) towards the end when you discuss the design of stills you mention "the ethanol" family and refer to "heavy" and "light" ethanol. As a chemist, I am aware of only one type of ethanol which has the formula C2H5OH. Are you perhaps referring to the family of primary alcohols which include methanol, ethanol, propanol etc ?
"I mean, when did you last go down to seashore got down on your hands and knees and started licking the stones?" It's been 10 minutes and I'm still laughing...
Hi Ralfy - just a quick point, fermentation of sugars (at least from yeast) does not produce methanol to any noticeable extent. The lighter fractions of the whisky that come off first will be lower boiling substances like acetone etc.
I'm more of a bourbon drinker, but I bought a bottle of this and it took almost a year of occasional pours to come around to it. This kind of peat is definitely an acquired taste, but it's very rewarding once you start to appreciate it.
I know what you mean about the aroma of Laphroaig. When I first tried it, it brought to mind carbolic or coal tar soap. Very distinctive! I have noticed a change though over the last 10 years. I thought it tasted better the first time. As you say, there are many reasons why flavours change (or our perceptions).
I've just recently bought a bottle of Laphroaig again, after finishing the last bottle maybe even as long ago as a year or so. It's my husband's favourite so I was very much looking forward to surprising him with it again. So, up he went to take a long relaxing bath last night and taking the dram with him - like he always does - and I decided to pour myself a tiny glass and have a tasting too. Opening the bottle I was a little disappointed because the smell didn't strike me - or rather smack me - as I remembered it usually to do. So, I took a sip from my glass and even then it struck me as not smelling nor tasting as phenolic or peaty or smokey (take your pick) as I remembered it. Now I've heard you say in this review that over time ones pallet changes, which makes sense, but when my hubby came downstairs again my first question was "What did you think of the taste?" and to my surprise he mentioned the same things that'd struck me. It could be that we both have broadened our malty horizon, my current favourites are Ledaig 10 and Gordon & Macphail's 8yr old Bunnahabhain, so please tel me do you really think the current Laphroaig 10 is up to its usual standard and taste? Regarding your last review it's even slightly superior, so maybe that's asking for the obvious reply, but does anyone else agree with me or would like to share his or her findings? P.s. my bottle label also states "farven justeret med karamel". Bought online from a whisky shop near Berlin, which is closer to Denmark than the south of the Netherlands where I live though.
Thank you for putting into words my experience with what has become my absolute favorite Scotch whiskey. It's not unlike looking at fine art, having no clue what fine art is, and finding that one gem that stimulates all of your senses.
Finally took the plunge and bought a bottle of Laphroaig; I'm so happy I did! I LOVE the dark/smokey tones of this one. It's so contemplative and interesting. I still don't tastes the medicinal/bandage aspects of it but I'm interested in it. I'll keep my taste buds open; thanks for the re-review!!!
Whisk(e)y is a beguiling and mercurial thing... I've just had a taste of Booker's bourbon, whose ratio of sour to sweet changed drastically with dilution, and a Laphroaig 10 that challenged my pallet by presenting me with unusual sensations. What a delightful hobby!
Hello Ralfy ! Can i ask you if your Laphroaig 10yo is a batch from 2011 or before, according to the specific labels rather on the neck and front of the bottle ? I've recently opened a 10yo which bottle code begins with "L9" (2009 and so similar to your own bottle) and another bottle from 2015 (no label on the neck, 10 years not in script font, bottle code is printed on the back of the front label, read it through the whisky/bottle). In my opinion, Laphroaig 10yo has changed a lot between this two bottlings. Now I'm smelling and tasting the recent one with more active wood (kind of "quarter cask-like"), softer, less "in your face" camphor-antiseptic, less iodine and sea-spray at all. Finish appears more grassy, heathery, kind of "green peat" or like green moss from a wet forest soil. When the glass is empty nosing feels close to Quarter Cask bottling. If you read me or have yourself a try with a Laphroaig 10yo from recent batches, I will very happy to know your opinion ?!
Ralfy, Laphroaig's and old favourite of mine. Haven't bought for a while because I'm always wanting to explore new flavours. Just now tasting the Aberlour A'Bunadh (batch 48) and quite disappointed with the monstrous sherry explosion followed by very little at all - your review was spot on as usual. Really wish I'd opted for an old favourite instead. It's time to go home - back to Laphroig. Thanks for all your reviews - you have many thousands of fans who really appreciate the work you're doing!
I have dissected dozens of cadavers and I'm telling you the nose on laphroig smells just like the fluid used in preserving the cadavers! love the taste of laphroig, though.
So, i don't mean to be too presumptive, but you gave Laphroaig quarter cask a 90 and Laphroaig 10yo an 87. Does that mean that the quarter cask may be somewhat superior to the 10yo in your opinion? I would love an answer to this question. Cheers!
Thank you for all of the reviews, Ralfy! I have experienced many wonderful drams through your reviews, and have also learned very much. I also like that you are occasionally re-reviewing various whiskies. As with many things, this year's "model" may not be the same as last year's, so it's good to know if and how certain key drams evolve. Slainte!
Always glad to see a re-visit of this classic whisky, Ralfy. However, I notice this is a slightly older bottle design. About 2-3 years ago, they changed the packaging to the Laphroaig range. (I think the 2013 or 2014 bottling was the first with the new design.) They removed the shoulder sticker (with the "1815" on it) from the bottle. Also the double green stripes on the top and bottom of the tube were replaced with single green stripes... among other several other changes. Check out the photos on the Whisky Exchange or Laphroaig websites for the latest version of the packaging. Not a big deal, of course, but my guess is that you're re-reviewing a 2011-2012 bottling of Laphroaig 10 here... even if it was a recent purchase.
+Jay M I have a bottle of Laphroaig and a bittle of Ardbeg 'on the go' and a couple unopened tbh, but I usually have a couple of everyday whiskies simply for costs sake. Usually this amounts to a bottle of Grants so the prospect on a peated Islay blend for 17.99 peaked my interest.
Laphroaig was my introduction to single malts by a comrade in a damp, but cosy, hostel in Western Highlands years ago. It was a revelation and I have never looked back. The only alternative to single malts, besides Bourbon, IMO, is the XO Calvados. Right now, I enjoy an Redbreast Single Pot, Cask Strenght. Rather nice if I may say so.
Fantastic, Ralfy! I found the first third of my bottle hard to love; the last third was delicious. The next bottle of this I buy I will let sit after opening( after enjoying the walloping power of the fresh bottle). Would you decent this one? Cheers from Mark in Seoul.
ralfy, that is the old packaging for Laphroaig. Here in the US we get a different looking tin and bottle...the spirit inside the bottle is different as well. I'm a Laphroaig junkie and the whisky is not the same as in the older packaging you have. And by not the same, I mean the quality has diminished terribly. I had my Dad try it as well (he's also a scotch drinker), he agreed...the quality is not the same. Do you have any thoughts on this?
Just came across your channel. Good stuff. Laphroaig 10yo and 100yo books go great together. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and wisdom with the world. I expect I'll learn a lot.
This was the first whisky I seriously tried and I remember it as being undrinkable. It was like a mouthful of peat, I struggled through about half of it and couldn't touch the rest. Then I got into really drinking whiskies and I was out one night and I felt like a dram or two and the only decent one they had was Laphroaig 10 so I decided to risk it. The difference was incredible, it wasn't anything like I remember it and I absolutely loved it. If I wasn't drinking it then I had my nose in the glass sniffing it!
I am really pleased that you've not only re-reviewed some whiskys, but that you are coming back to them yet again. We change, the whiskys change etc. to it's really important to check in again for a bit of calibration as it were. My feelings for Laphroaig 10 used to be much stronger as the spirit seems to have become a bit lighter in the past few years or it's quite possible my palate has changed. In any case it still is a very fine dram but when applying the QPR (Quality Price Ratio) it's hard to beat at the moment. At the mega market nearby I can get it for $33/£23 750ml. It seems most of the other whiskys I prefer in the 10-12 year old range are hovering closer to $50/£35 zone. There seems to be the idea that that Islay malts, or any heavily peated malts, are too challenging for the novices but Lagavulin and Laphroaig really paved the way for me to Scotch many years ago. It's only with the past few years that I've started paying serious attention to the rest of Scotland's regional malts.
Ralfy, any plans to re-review the Laphroaig 10 yr old Cask Strength? That was one of your very early reivews, and they've since changed it to a "batch" system. Would love to hear what you think of the "new" version!
Glad to see another Lagavulin coming up for review next. If you get your hands on the new Lagavulin 8 and find it to be worthy, it would be great to see a review of that one too. (Serge recently gave it a glowing review.) A younger and stronger Lagavulin (at 48%) shows a lot promise...especially since they are willing to put an age statement on a young whisky. (Hopefully the start of a good trend!)
Hi, big fans from Hong Kong. Would like to know how you compare Laphroaig 10 and Quarter Cask? I am going to try a Laphroaig and wondering which should i go for ? :)
Just about finished my Laphroaig 10. Didn't like it at first, but now I actively find time to drink it. My next journey in single-malt whisky will be the Lagavulin 16.
One of the best whiskies i have tried was a 5 yo Laphroaigh. I love the quarter cask too, wich is a younger malt. Other than that i have started to love Springbank! The old style kinda whisky are sooo good. Time for a Longrow while your in a peaty mood??
Ralfy could you do a review on the new Laphroaig Select? It seems to have caused a lot of fuss and I can get it for about 25 pounds in my whereabouts :D
Ralfy I am relatively new to Scotch, just since September. I've feel I've learned quite a lot, mostly thanks to your great collection of videos (I've probably watched between 200 and 300 of them)! Thanks for all of your great work. For a humorous change of pace I've watched a few of the "Scotch Test Dummies" videos. As someone who has benefited tremendously from your awesome work I would like to suggest that you try watching a few of these, maybe sipping along with, or after a few Dram. You might need a few before because they can get pretty silly, over the top, but if you do hang in there and see a mix you might start to appreciate their goofing around. With me, they've actually triggered a big laugh at times... outrageous humor (but even back in the 70's I watched Monty Python, so crazy english humor maybe is a starting point, and that leaves Scotch Test Dummies pretty tame in comparison). Recall my "pay it forward" comments, you might enjoy the nutty american craziness of these guys. They definitely are trying.
Feeling a little relief after this review. Prior to this review you mentioned that you were't going to re-try Quarter Cask because you feared disappointment. Our annual whisky show was in November and I had reserved a couple of bottles of Laphroaig Cairdeas 2015, it was a total disappointment; a waste of 100 CDN $.
Hi there, I just stumbled upon your reviews and I have to say I'm impressed! As someone whose just starting to move into islay singe malts what would you recommend for someone whose enjoying big, fruity flavors in their liquor and is finding that they enjoy those sea salt and brine flavors? Do you have any relatively common bottles that you enjoy that fit profile? I'd really appreciate it, you seem to really know your stuff!
My tipple is port but I tried Glen Orchy from Lidl. Tasted like weak liquorice but very nice mixed with Osborne white port. Is there another reasonably priced malt to try? The grain whisky I like is Grants.
Quarter Cask is just about the only NAS whisky on the market that I'm still willing to buy. But the 10 year old is just that bit more complex (and expensive sadly).
I'm 21 years old and this was my first scotch whisky that I'd ever tried. Jack Daniel's was the only other whiskey I'd ever had, and so this came as quite an intense introduction to scotch whisky. Good thing I had a cigar to go along with it.
The Laphroaig QC is simply amazing and so far my favorite affordable whisky. It really is a shame that you have stopped reviewing NAS whisky's (for a damn good reason might i add). I would buy the QC even if it said 3 y.o. on the bottle, however i expect its closer to 6 years. I honestly think some younger whiskys are at least as good as some of the older ones, it really is a matter of personal preferance more than anything else and the distillers should be proud that their young whisky can compete! Thank you for your awsome reviews.
Hey Ralfy, you mention that Laphroaig smells medicinal and with a hint of bandages. Don't know if you have many viewers from eastern europe, but we used to have this Vishnevsky liniment that is really reminiscent of Laphroaig, made of birch tar and castor oil.
+ForeverMasterless its a love or hate scotch. I have given it so many tries along with other islay scotches. I just can't like that peat fire taste. To each their own. My favorite whiskey in this price range is balvenie dooublewood.
theshapeexists Haha, that's so funny. My girlfriend's boss brought some of that to their last company christmas party and I hated it. I'm coming to realize I'm just not a fan of speysides.
I bought a bottle of Laphroaig Select from the supermarket because it was all they had in. It definitely does have a more subdued peaty taste than this one, but I wouldn't say to a disappointing degree. I will, however, probably not pick it up again if left with a choice. But I'm very new to whiskies, so I'm probably missing quite a lot that someone more in tune with the taste of them would be able to pick up. So despite your derision of it, I would still be interested in seeing a review!
I new I was a Scotch lover, even more accurately--an Islay malt fan, when my first Scotch I bought was a bottle of of Laphroaig 10 and was extremely pleased with it. Lovely stuff.
I have just recently started watching your channel. Your palate totally agrees with mine, so your reviews are very useful to me. Many thanks. Just one question though, you often start your reviews thanking someone for a mention. What is that all about?
I think you have got the slightly older version of the 10yo ´Froig in your video? At least the current tube design looks different from the one in this review of yours.
As one who enjoys Lapsang Souchong Tea, I definitely have something to compare it with. Love that both the Tea and the Whiskey give the enjoyment of sitting in front of a Fireplace (Ir. Gaelic: Tinteán) without having one with that primordial sense that the hearth can have.
+Gachain Yes, Lapsang Souchong would be an apt comparison and for those who enjoy a briar pipe, 'English/Balkan/Oriental tobacco blends which have Latakia as main component fits nicely too.
I had a dram of the 15yo in a bar recently and it was great (but overprices) stuff. Besides I did some experimental research on E150. I tried small amounts in mineral water and whisky and found the influence noticable but also discreete. But I totally agree, that it's use should be forbidden, like in the US.
Ralfy, TCP's brand name comes from its original chemical name trichlorophenylmethyliodosalicyl, and doesn't actually contain trichlorophenol !! I'm a whisky beginner, only getting into it seriously the past few months (after trying Talisker 10yo in a local pub). I recently bought a bottle of Laphroaig 10yo, and have struggled a little with the level of peat/smoke. Are there actually any other single malts that are considerably more peaty (I'm thinking Ardbeg/Lagavulin/other Islay malts). Or is L10 about as peaty as they get? I'm sure the L10 has several times the peat of Talisker 10yo which is itself moderately peated! Here's what I've tried so far:- Jameson Glenfiddich 12yo Glenmorangie 10yo Highland Park 12yo Talisker 10yo Penderyn Madeira finish Jura ? (in Wetherspoons) JW Black Label Looking to try Aberlour 10 or 12 next (seems to be good deals in the supermarket atm @£20/26 respectively). You'll hate me for saying this, but a nip of Laphroaig 10 goes beautifully on ice-cream, giving it a rich peaty/smokey/heathery taste, perfectly contrasting the sweetness!
+Rob Wong Nothing wrong with some culinary whisky experiments in-fact sometimes they can be palate educating. Occasionally on the weekend I enjoy two or three teaspoons of Quarter Cask combined with one or two teaspoons of honey in my porridge.
+knarfzxc Sounds good to me! Just managed to buy a bottle of Aberlour 10yo and Highland Park 12yo for £37 (supermarket vouchers and deals), so am in whisky heaven at the moment!
Another thing I like with very peated whiskies as Laphroaig and Ardbeg, is to open a new bottle, put your handflate (make sure your hand is clean) on the top of the bottle and cover it with your hand, and turn the bottle quickly to the side. Then put the bottle down. As you know some drops of peated whisky is on your hand now. Then rub your handflates quick together. Then put your hands to your face and smell and breathe in.... This is the peatyest moment for a peated whisky... Lovely..
Or whenever some inevitably drips over the edge while pouring and you get 3 drops on your hand. Just happened to me, rather than let it stay on the bottle and go to the angels, I wiped it up with my hand, rubbed them together just as you described, and you're absolutely right - the smell was incredible. Enjoyed that for a few minutes before taking my first sip!
When I drink Laphroaig, it seems obvious to me that the maker of this whiskey intends it to be drank in cold and damp weather. Anyone drinking this stuff out there on a tropical island, or at a beach resort, just doesn't get it, imho. It's perfect for a ski lodge, or, I would imagine, the Manx bothy. It evokes the fireplace.
Damn it, man! This means that as long as I live in South Florida I won't be able to drink Laphroaig. Temps here never go below 40 F or 5 C and we don't have ski lodges. But there's hope, I love the smell of a fireplace.
Dear Ralfy! Thank you for this most informative review! I've thoroughly enjoyed it and it will certainly make my next tasting of a Laphroaig dram more interesting. I've been falling behind with your reviews for some time now, on account of small children and enormous amounts of studying I have to do, but definitively look forward to catching up! Thank you again and keep up the good work! Best regards from Slovenia
To me laphroaig smells more medicinal in a glen cairn and a lot more smoky in a tumbler. Noticed the same with longrow. I'd love to know why, I assume it's to do with the size and weight of the various aroma molecules and the way that makes them move around as vapour. I'm thinking that's what affects the relative concentrations of aromas in different shaped glasses.
I used to love Laphroaig. Sadly I just can't drink the stuff anymore, changing palates and all that ? Still a great educational video, loved the pot stills section of the review.
Ralfy, you also reviewed this one in 2012; review 272. Review 30 was the cask strength expression. We appreciate them all. Thanks!
I've been drinking whisky for two decades... I always learn something new from each of Ralfy's videos.
Best. Quote. Ever. "We do not lick the inside of chimneys." Haha!
Speak for yourself, guys. Don't knock it 'till you try it. ;)
You mean Burnt boots drenched in iodine
Or, "Crushed seashells? Now there's another thing we don't smell and taste... I mean, when did you last go down to seashore get down on hands and knees and start licking stones? Exactly. Me neither." Perfect Laphroaig!
You will probably not read this comment since it is an old video, but when I buy a laphroaig I sometimes pour a glass and then starts breathing it in heavily, nose straight down the glass, until the i almost lose the intence smells, the nose gets accoustomed to the smell, and then taste it. The taste changes alot and it feels alot more mild. It is a fun experiment that you ought to try.
. . . I just read your comment in my old video ! love and peace and happy malt-moments.
"A Pancake of Peatiness" !! Best description ever!!
Haha, thanks as usual Ralfy for the entertaining and informative whiskey review! Keep em coming!
Send that quote to laphroaig opinion wall!
The day I finally got to visit Laphroaig last May was unfortunately the same day my dad passed away. It was hard that I wasn't home but if you gave me a choice to be anywhere else in the whole world during that hard time it would be Islay and specifically Laphroaig. What a special place and a special distillery. Thanks for the good work Ralpy!
Ohh...smoke...seaweed...ink...such a bewitching array of strange aromas. I fell in love with Laphroaig 10 many years ago and it always makes me smile.
this was one of the first single malts I ever tried and for five years I refused to drink anything from Islay, gave it another shot a year ago and have had a bottle open ever since. I love the older Laphroaigs. thanks for another great review
I just finished up my first bottle of this wonderful Scotch whisky. I couldn't get enough of it. You're absolutely correct. You either love peated whisky or you don't. I love it!
Yes, me too - I just think this is among the best of Scots whisky
"Take it easy and keep it quality." Words to live by. Thanks Ralfy!
I love what you say about the smells and tastes that we aren't familiar with. It's the perfect way to describe this whisky. Well done, sir.
Firstly I love your videos Ralfy and this is my first comment. I JUST bought a bottle of this whisky even though I watched your review ages ago. I am extremely upset about one thing.......that I procrastinated for as long as I did, I LOVE THIS STUFF! I can taste it forever after drinking it! Cheers! Boy am I late to the party or what?
It took about a half bottle to get used to it. Now, I really like it. If you like smoky campfires, aromatic pipe smoke or a good strong cup of Lapsang Souchong, then you'll like this after you get over the initial shock.
i tried this last year around summer time, bought another bottle and liked it but since it tastes like smoke i want to try drinking it during winter when it snows
My first peat experience,some years ago, after a suggestion of a friend of mine in order to get a bargain whiskey from an "obsolete" clearance of a S/M.When he asked for my "Review" i said "It's like drinking iodine in a chimney that used for smoked salmons"!! And i mention that because it's very important for the viewer to have some "proof" that his taste is in a similar track with the reviewer, so a common view establish a "trust" between them, and you are one (if not The) of the most reliable source for whiskey reviews on the internet(at least for me).Thank you Ralfy,keep up the excellent "work"!
+ΚΩΣΤΑΝΤΙΝΟΣ ΕΥΘΥΜΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ . . . happy to share the malt-moments !
I remember first smelling this after opening the bottle and thought, well that was a waste of 50 bucks. didnt touch it for a few months until I ran out of all my other whiskey and then it spoke to me like an omnipotent sentinel. favorite whiskey to this day
Thanks Ralfy , I love the chemistry and mechanics of distillation its fascinating to me
This vid is best accompanied by a dram of Laphroaig, in my case it is a Brodir, but in the essence it's the same, maybe just a bit more rounded. Great whisky
the first scotch I ever bought, still one of my favorites!
"Light" and "Heavy" ethanol
I really enjoy your tasting videos, however having watched your review 575 (Lophroig) towards the end when you discuss the design of stills you mention "the ethanol" family and refer to "heavy" and "light" ethanol. As a chemist, I am aware of only one type of ethanol which has the formula
C2H5OH. Are you perhaps referring to the family of primary alcohols which include methanol, ethanol, propanol etc ?
I have been drinking malt whisky just for a year and i have fallen in love with the taste and smell of laphroaig! Such intensity!
"I mean, when did you last go down to seashore got down on your hands and knees and started licking the stones?"
It's been 10 minutes and I'm still laughing...
This was the first single malt Scotch that I ever tried. It put me off single malts for a long time. :)
Hi Ralfy - just a quick point, fermentation of sugars (at least from yeast) does not produce methanol to any noticeable extent. The lighter fractions of the whisky that come off first will be lower boiling substances like acetone etc.
. . . . your right. Apple ferments tend to generate the most methanol !
I'm more of a bourbon drinker, but I bought a bottle of this and it took almost a year of occasional pours to come around to it. This kind of peat is definitely an acquired taste, but it's very rewarding once you start to appreciate it.
I know what you mean about the aroma of Laphroaig. When I first tried it, it brought to mind carbolic or coal tar soap. Very distinctive! I have noticed a change though over the last 10 years. I thought it tasted better the first time. As you say, there are many reasons why flavours change (or our perceptions).
Ralfy, I wish you would review the Shackelton recreation that is based on the catche found in Antartica.
I enjoyed a wee dram of Laphroig whilst watch this vid.
you nailed it!!! Badnages!!! that was the missing link I was looking for.... I love Laphroaig 10 yr... many many bottles have been consumed!!
I've just recently bought a bottle of Laphroaig again, after finishing the last bottle maybe even as long ago as a year or so. It's my husband's favourite so I was very
much looking forward to surprising him with it again. So, up he went to take a long relaxing bath last night and taking the dram with him - like he always does - and I decided to pour myself a tiny glass and have a tasting too. Opening the bottle I was a little disappointed because the smell didn't strike me - or rather smack me - as I remembered it usually to do. So, I took a sip from my glass and even then it struck me as not smelling nor tasting as phenolic or peaty or smokey (take your pick) as I remembered it. Now I've heard you say in this review that over time ones pallet changes, which makes sense, but when my hubby came downstairs again my first question was "What did you think of the taste?" and to my surprise he mentioned the same things that'd struck me. It could be that we both have broadened our malty horizon, my current favourites are Ledaig 10 and Gordon & Macphail's 8yr old Bunnahabhain, so please tel me do you really think the current Laphroaig 10 is up to its usual standard and taste? Regarding your last review it's even slightly superior, so maybe that's asking for the obvious reply, but does anyone else agree with me or would like to share his or her findings?
P.s. my bottle label also states "farven justeret med karamel". Bought online from a whisky shop near Berlin, which is closer to Denmark than the south of the Netherlands where I live though.
I am tasting Laphroaig 10yr for the first time tonight..........and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!
. . . savour the malt-moment !
Tasted the Laphroaig Brodir last week, amazing dram! 93/100 Fantastic distillery!
on the label it states: farven er justeret med karamel... Danish for: colour is enhanced with caramel.
Thank you for putting into words my experience with what has become my absolute favorite Scotch whiskey. It's not unlike looking at fine art, having no clue what fine art is, and finding that one gem that stimulates all of your senses.
Laphroaig 10 comes as 43% in Canada..I'm thinking of giving it a shot since I've already enjoyed the Quarter Cask
Finally took the plunge and bought a bottle of Laphroaig; I'm so happy I did! I LOVE the dark/smokey tones of this one. It's so contemplative and interesting. I still don't tastes the medicinal/bandage aspects of it but I'm interested in it. I'll keep my taste buds open; thanks for the re-review!!!
Whisk(e)y is a beguiling and mercurial thing... I've just had a taste of Booker's bourbon, whose ratio of sour to sweet changed drastically with dilution, and a Laphroaig 10 that challenged my pallet by presenting me with unusual sensations. What a delightful hobby!
Hello Ralfy ! Can i ask you if your Laphroaig 10yo is a batch from 2011 or before, according to the specific labels rather on the neck and front of the bottle ? I've recently opened a 10yo which bottle code begins with "L9" (2009 and so similar to your own bottle) and another bottle from 2015 (no label on the neck, 10 years not in script font, bottle code is printed on the back of the front label, read it through the whisky/bottle). In my opinion, Laphroaig 10yo has changed a lot between this two bottlings. Now I'm smelling and tasting the recent one with more active wood (kind of "quarter cask-like"), softer, less "in your face" camphor-antiseptic, less iodine and sea-spray at all. Finish appears more grassy, heathery, kind of "green peat" or like green moss from a wet forest soil. When the glass is empty nosing feels close to Quarter Cask bottling. If you read me or have yourself a try with a Laphroaig 10yo from recent batches, I will very happy to know your opinion ?!
Do you have a list of your 90 malt marks, that would be a good few shows.
thank you for this beautiful review Sir Ralfy
Ralfy, Laphroaig's and old favourite of mine. Haven't bought for a while because I'm always wanting to explore new flavours. Just now tasting the Aberlour A'Bunadh (batch 48) and quite disappointed with the monstrous sherry explosion followed by very little at all - your review was spot on as usual. Really wish I'd opted for an old favourite instead. It's time to go home - back to Laphroig. Thanks for all your reviews - you have many thousands of fans who really appreciate the work you're doing!
I have dissected dozens of cadavers and I'm telling you the nose on laphroig smells just like the fluid used in preserving the cadavers! love the taste of laphroig, though.
Darth Vader Who’d have thought Leatherface enjoyed a drop of scotch. x
What a coincidence I just re-opened my Laphroaid the day you posted this video, I only got 4 or 5 doses left, and the smoke always gets me.
So, i don't mean to be too presumptive, but you gave Laphroaig quarter cask a 90 and Laphroaig 10yo an 87. Does that mean that the quarter cask may be somewhat superior to the 10yo in your opinion? I would love an answer to this question. Cheers!
That’s how scoring works!
Thank you for all of the reviews, Ralfy! I have experienced many wonderful drams through your reviews, and have also learned very much. I also like that you are occasionally re-reviewing various whiskies. As with many things, this year's "model" may not be the same as last year's, so it's good to know if and how certain key drams evolve. Slainte!
I'm obliged to drink this
once in a while for
antibiotic purposes
Always glad to see a re-visit of this classic whisky, Ralfy. However, I notice this is a slightly older bottle design. About 2-3 years ago, they changed the packaging to the Laphroaig range. (I think the 2013 or 2014 bottling was the first with the new design.) They removed the shoulder sticker (with the "1815" on it) from the bottle. Also the double green stripes on the top and bottom of the tube were replaced with single green stripes... among other several other changes. Check out the photos on the Whisky Exchange or Laphroaig websites for the latest version of the packaging. Not a big deal, of course, but my guess is that you're re-reviewing a 2011-2012 bottling of Laphroaig 10 here... even if it was a recent purchase.
+mjanovec I noticed the same thing. Was wondering if anyone else spotted it. Nicely done mjanovec.
I noted my local Aldi is doing a peated Islay blend for £17.99. Wondered if you'd sampled it or reviewed it?
Love your reviews btw and your style!
+Jay M
I have a bottle of Laphroaig and a bittle of Ardbeg 'on the go' and a couple unopened tbh, but I usually have a couple of everyday whiskies simply for costs sake. Usually this amounts to a bottle of Grants so the prospect on a peated Islay blend for 17.99 peaked my interest.
+noelplum99 For the price not bad at all try it
Laphroaig was my introduction to single malts by a comrade in a damp, but cosy, hostel in Western Highlands years ago. It was a revelation and I have never looked back.
The only alternative to single malts, besides Bourbon, IMO, is the XO Calvados.
Right now, I enjoy an Redbreast Single Pot, Cask Strenght. Rather nice if I may say so.
Ok, I've heard enough. From now on, I'm throwing out my first-aid kit from my car. Might as well drive around with a bottle of Laphroaig in the boot.
+ArumesYT Not a bad option since the alcohol will double as an antiseptic =P
@@foxhound5702 bottled at cask strength would easily triple that
@@barmalini This.....
Fantastic, Ralfy! I found the first third of my bottle hard to love; the last third was delicious. The next bottle of this I buy I will let sit after opening( after enjoying the walloping power of the fresh bottle). Would you decent this one? Cheers from Mark in Seoul.
Smart man.
ralfy, that is the old packaging for Laphroaig. Here in the US we get a different looking tin and bottle...the spirit inside the bottle is different as well. I'm a Laphroaig junkie and the whisky is not the same as in the older packaging you have. And by not the same, I mean the quality has diminished terribly. I had my Dad try it as well (he's also a scotch drinker), he agreed...the quality is not the same. Do you have any thoughts on this?
Just came across your channel. Good stuff. Laphroaig 10yo and 100yo books go great together. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and wisdom with the world. I expect I'll learn a lot.
This was the first whisky I seriously tried and I remember it as being undrinkable. It was like a mouthful of peat, I struggled through about half of it and couldn't touch the rest. Then I got into really drinking whiskies and I was out one night and I felt like a dram or two and the only decent one they had was Laphroaig 10 so I decided to risk it.
The difference was incredible, it wasn't anything like I remember it and I absolutely loved it. If I wasn't drinking it then I had my nose in the glass sniffing it!
I am really pleased that you've not only re-reviewed some whiskys, but that you are coming back to them yet again. We change, the whiskys change etc. to it's really important to check in again for a bit of calibration as it were.
My feelings for Laphroaig 10 used to be much stronger as the spirit seems to have become a bit lighter in the past few years or it's quite possible my palate has changed. In any case it still is a very fine dram but when applying the QPR (Quality Price Ratio) it's hard to beat at the moment. At the mega market nearby I can get it for $33/£23 750ml. It seems most of the other whiskys I prefer in the 10-12 year old range are hovering closer to $50/£35 zone.
There seems to be the idea that that Islay malts, or any heavily peated malts, are too challenging for the novices but Lagavulin and Laphroaig really paved the way for me to Scotch many years ago. It's only with the past few years that I've started paying serious attention to the rest of Scotland's regional malts.
Simply, my go-to daily dram...
Ralfy, any plans to re-review the Laphroaig 10 yr old Cask Strength? That was one of your very early reivews, and they've since changed it to a "batch" system. Would love to hear what you think of the "new" version!
Love it Ralfy! You are, charming, funny, knowledgeable and a great source of important information. Thank you, sir.
Glad to see another Lagavulin coming up for review next. If you get your hands on the new Lagavulin 8 and find it to be worthy, it would be great to see a review of that one too. (Serge recently gave it a glowing review.) A younger and stronger Lagavulin (at 48%) shows a lot promise...especially since they are willing to put an age statement on a young whisky. (Hopefully the start of a good trend!)
Hi, big fans from Hong Kong. Would like to know how you compare Laphroaig 10 and Quarter Cask? I am going to try a Laphroaig and wondering which should i go for ? :)
Just about finished my Laphroaig 10. Didn't like it at first, but now I actively find time to drink it. My next journey in single-malt whisky will be the Lagavulin 16.
One of the best whiskies i have tried was a 5 yo Laphroaigh.
I love the quarter cask too, wich is a younger malt.
Other than that i have started to love Springbank!
The old style kinda whisky are sooo good.
Time for a Longrow while your in a peaty mood??
I agree ralfy, bring it on, I know your not keen on nas but I think the quarter cask is superb
+Philip Clurow He gave the original QC a mark of 90. He's keen on it. He's just taken a stand on reviewing NAS.
Ralfy, what is the peatiest whisky that you've ever tried?
Ralfy you are the man! I could listen to you ramble on about this stuff anytime.
I`m right into whisky now thanks to ralfy. just got into it about 5 years ago after watching his videos. thanks ralfy.
Ralfy could you do a review on the new Laphroaig Select? It seems to have caused a lot of fuss and I can get it for about 25 pounds in my whereabouts :D
Ralfy I am relatively new to Scotch, just since September. I've feel I've learned quite a lot, mostly thanks to your great collection of videos (I've probably watched between 200 and 300 of them)! Thanks for all of your great work.
For a humorous change of pace I've watched a few of the "Scotch Test Dummies" videos. As someone who has benefited tremendously from your awesome work I would like to suggest that you try watching a few of these, maybe sipping along with, or after a few Dram. You might need a few before because they can get pretty silly, over the top, but if you do hang in there and see a mix you might start to appreciate their goofing around. With me, they've actually triggered a big laugh at times... outrageous humor (but even back in the 70's I watched Monty Python, so crazy english humor maybe is a starting point, and that leaves Scotch Test Dummies pretty tame in comparison).
Recall my "pay it forward" comments, you might enjoy the nutty american craziness of these guys. They definitely are trying.
Feeling a little relief after this review. Prior to this review you mentioned that you were't going to re-try Quarter Cask because you feared disappointment. Our annual whisky show was in November and I had reserved a couple of bottles of Laphroaig Cairdeas 2015, it was a total disappointment; a waste of 100 CDN $.
Hi there, I just stumbled upon your reviews and I have to say I'm impressed!
As someone whose just starting to move into islay singe malts what would you recommend for someone whose enjoying big, fruity flavors in their liquor and is finding that they enjoy those sea salt and brine flavors? Do you have any relatively common bottles that you enjoy that fit profile? I'd really appreciate it, you seem to really know your stuff!
always preferred Ardbeg 10 but will never turn down a drink of Laphroaig
My tipple is port but I tried Glen Orchy from Lidl. Tasted like weak liquorice but very nice mixed with Osborne white port. Is there another reasonably priced malt to try? The grain whisky I like is Grants.
+Tatty Fowl Glenfiddich 12 is amongst most reasonably priced and it's excellent, especially if you like grants.
Quarter Cask is just about the only NAS whisky on the market that I'm still willing to buy. But the 10 year old is just that bit more complex (and expensive sadly).
I'm 21 years old and this was my first scotch whisky that I'd ever tried. Jack Daniel's was the only other whiskey I'd ever had, and so this came as quite an intense introduction to scotch whisky. Good thing I had a cigar to go along with it.
the quarter cask i enjoy. its not cold filtered but no age declaration which still annoys me.
The Laphroaig QC is simply amazing and so far my favorite affordable whisky. It really is a shame that you have stopped reviewing NAS whisky's (for a damn good reason might i add). I would buy the QC even if it said 3 y.o. on the bottle, however i expect its closer to 6 years. I honestly think some younger whiskys are at least as good as some of the older ones, it really is a matter of personal preferance more than anything else and the distillers should be proud that their young whisky can compete! Thank you for your awsome reviews.
Hey Ralfy, you mention that Laphroaig smells medicinal and with a hint of bandages. Don't know if you have many viewers from eastern europe, but we used to have this Vishnevsky liniment that is really reminiscent of Laphroaig, made of birch tar and castor oil.
Denis Kobozev almost reminds me of iodine which is like a hospital smell
This is my go-to whiskey. Not too expensive, heavy peat. Love it.
+ForeverMasterless its a love or hate scotch. I have given it so many tries along with other islay scotches. I just can't like that peat fire taste. To each their own. My favorite whiskey in this price range is balvenie dooublewood.
theshapeexists
Haha, that's so funny. My girlfriend's boss brought some of that to their last company christmas party and I hated it. I'm coming to realize I'm just not a fan of speysides.
+ForeverMasterless lol. like I said, to each their own.
Try Glenlivet 12 double oak it's a delicious speyside oaky dram affordable as well
What hit my nose when trying this for the first time was the bananas! Cheers, Ralfy.
I bought a bottle of Laphroaig Select from the supermarket because it was all they had in. It definitely does have a more subdued peaty taste than this one, but I wouldn't say to a disappointing degree. I will, however, probably not pick it up again if left with a choice. But I'm very new to whiskies, so I'm probably missing quite a lot that someone more in tune with the taste of them would be able to pick up. So despite your derision of it, I would still be interested in seeing a review!
I new I was a Scotch lover, even more accurately--an Islay malt fan, when my first Scotch I bought was a bottle of of Laphroaig 10 and was extremely pleased with it. Lovely stuff.
would you recommend any single malt ralfy that is non chill filtered,peated and without any e155 chemical in it?
Hey Ralfy! Have you tried the irishman 70? If so what did you think? A review maybe?
Really great videos!
I have just recently started watching your channel. Your palate totally agrees with mine, so your reviews are very useful to me. Many thanks.
Just one question though, you often start your reviews thanking someone for a mention. What is that all about?
. . . the 'malt' mention, any words beginning with 'm'
I think you have got the slightly older version of the 10yo ´Froig in your video?
At least the current tube design looks different from the one in this review of yours.
As one who enjoys Lapsang Souchong Tea, I definitely have something to compare it with. Love that both the Tea and the Whiskey give the enjoyment of sitting in front of a Fireplace (Ir. Gaelic: Tinteán) without having one with that primordial sense that the hearth can have.
+Gachain Yes, Lapsang Souchong would be an apt comparison and for those who enjoy a briar pipe, 'English/Balkan/Oriental tobacco blends which have Latakia as main component fits nicely too.
I had a dram of the 15yo in a bar recently and it was great (but overprices) stuff.
Besides I did some experimental research on E150. I tried small amounts in mineral water and whisky and found the influence noticable but also discreete. But I totally agree, that it's use should be forbidden, like in the US.
Agree with the 10 version being better the last time I had it myself. I got a bottle in January, It was quite a few years a apart.
Always nice to see you returning to the Islay malts Rafly =) Might we see another video on your whisky collection at some stage this year?
Ralfy, TCP's brand name comes from its original chemical name trichlorophenylmethyliodosalicyl, and doesn't actually contain trichlorophenol !!
I'm a whisky beginner, only getting into it seriously the past few months (after trying Talisker 10yo in a local pub). I recently bought a bottle of Laphroaig 10yo, and have struggled a little with the level of peat/smoke. Are there actually any other single malts that are considerably more peaty (I'm thinking Ardbeg/Lagavulin/other Islay malts). Or is L10 about as peaty as they get? I'm sure the L10 has several times the peat of Talisker 10yo which is itself moderately peated!
Here's what I've tried so far:-
Jameson
Glenfiddich 12yo
Glenmorangie 10yo
Highland Park 12yo
Talisker 10yo
Penderyn Madeira finish
Jura ? (in Wetherspoons)
JW Black Label
Looking to try Aberlour 10 or 12 next (seems to be good deals in the supermarket atm @£20/26 respectively).
You'll hate me for saying this, but a nip of Laphroaig 10 goes beautifully on ice-cream, giving it a rich peaty/smokey/heathery taste, perfectly contrasting the sweetness!
+Rob Wong Nothing wrong with some culinary whisky experiments in-fact sometimes they can be palate educating. Occasionally on the weekend I enjoy two or three teaspoons of Quarter Cask combined with one or two teaspoons of honey in my porridge.
+knarfzxc Sounds good to me!
Just managed to buy a bottle of Aberlour 10yo and Highland Park 12yo for £37 (supermarket vouchers and deals), so am in whisky heaven at the moment!
The whisky that made me love malts. Awesome Laphroaig!
Another thing I like with very peated whiskies as Laphroaig and Ardbeg, is to open a new bottle, put your handflate (make sure your hand is clean) on the top of the bottle and cover it with your hand, and turn the bottle quickly to the side. Then put the bottle down. As you know some drops of peated whisky is on your hand now. Then rub your handflates quick together. Then put your hands to your face and smell and breathe in.... This is the peatyest moment for a peated whisky... Lovely..
Or whenever some inevitably drips over the edge while pouring and you get 3 drops on your hand. Just happened to me, rather than let it stay on the bottle and go to the angels, I wiped it up with my hand, rubbed them together just as you described, and you're absolutely right - the smell was incredible. Enjoyed that for a few minutes before taking my first sip!
The select is natural colour as stated on the box.
43% here in Texas. The best heavily peated Islay for the money. Good stuff.
When I drink Laphroaig, it seems obvious to me that the maker of this whiskey intends it to be drank in cold and damp weather. Anyone drinking this stuff out there on a tropical island, or at a beach resort, just doesn't get it, imho. It's perfect for a ski lodge, or, I would imagine, the Manx bothy. It evokes the fireplace.
Agreed, it is designed to cheer the soul in the deep of winter, to raise the spirits in the depths of a blizzard :)
I almost feel like I can’t drink it unless it’s raining outside lol. I always save my peated whiskys for colder, rainier, gloomy weather
Yes
Damn it, man! This means that as long as I live in South Florida I won't be able to drink Laphroaig. Temps here never go below 40 F or 5 C and we don't have ski lodges. But there's hope, I love the smell of a fireplace.
I don't care where I live - it's at my bedside and a sip at night warms me up and takes me to dreamland
Buffalo trace or Woodford reserve? which one is better?
Dear Ralfy!
Thank you for this most informative review! I've thoroughly enjoyed it and it will certainly make my next tasting of a Laphroaig dram more interesting.
I've been falling behind with your reviews for some time now, on account of small children and enormous amounts of studying I have to do, but definitively look forward to catching up!
Thank you again and keep up the good work!
Best regards from Slovenia
To me laphroaig smells more medicinal in a glen cairn and a lot more smoky in a tumbler. Noticed the same with longrow. I'd love to know why, I assume it's to do with the size and weight of the various aroma molecules and the way that makes them move around as vapour. I'm thinking that's what affects the relative concentrations of aromas in different shaped glasses.
Hi Ralfy -- really enjoy your videos. Is there anywhere on your website or elsewhere that you have a list of all of your ratings?
+JA M . . . try my fan-page at ralfywhisky.webnode.be/
+ralfystuff Excellent, thank you!
+JA M docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1BuVCjv8FY9Wa2FJpKgLqQh9NwoSE3Okb_tasTtHbvC4/edit?usp=sharing
Hi ralfy, was wondering, other than drinking a lot of whiskys.... how have you developed your whisky knowledge?
+Sam Brown . . . listening to experienced whisky-makers and coopers. There are a lot of interesting chats to be had in bars.
I used to love Laphroaig. Sadly I just can't drink the stuff anymore, changing palates and all that ? Still a great educational video, loved the pot stills section of the review.