Laphroaig 10 YO Cask Strength Batch 006

Laphroaig 10 YO Cask Strength Batch 006, 58 %

The very first single malt whisky I learnt to appreciate - the first real step on my whisky saga, if you will - was Laphroaig 10 YO Cask Strength. Laphroaig is an iconic Islay distillery, established in 1815. The 10 YO cask strength expression has been in their core range for many years. Starting in 2009 Laphroaig have released this whisky as an annual numbered batch. The ABV, the nose and the taste will vary slightly from batch to batch.

Laphroaig 10 YO Cask Strength Batch 006 was bottled in February 2014, with an ABV of 58 %. It is available to buy online from Laphroaig at GBP 47,50. This whisky is currently not available to buy in Norway or Sweden.

Nose (22/25): Sweet and pronounced peat - as it should be! Sea salt, white pepper, milk chocolate, dark honey, almonds and cinnamon. I do detect some faint sherry notes here as well.

Taste (23/25): Peaty, medicinal, creamy and rich! Ginger, oranges, white pepper and a lovely tingling sensation. A big pile of wet driftwood burning on a surf-tormented shore, as the storm clouds gather. The mouthfeel is oily and creamy. Love it!

Finish (22/25): A bit drier on the finish, but at the same time mouthwatering - one of those lovely whisky conundrums. Ginger, caramel and creamy chocolate all the way home.

Balance (22/25): Old love does not rust, and Laphroaig 10 YO Cask Strength does not disappoint - ever. 'nuff said!

Score (89/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas