For the Laphroaig Oak Select, the Islay distillery has taken whisky from a number of different types of cask, including oloroso sherry butts, white American oak, Pedro Ximenez seasoned hoggies, quarter casks, and first-fill bourbon casks. Quite a selection, wouldn't you say? A laid-back addition to the Laphroaig core range of single malts.
Classic, medicinal peat notes up front, supported by citrus-y, chocolate-y sweet notes and soft barley.
The peat is there, but it's taking it easy and letting the bright notes of lemon, green apples and mint stand out. Darker baking spice notes develop further on.
Medium length, peat remaining in sight until it's over.
It doesn't pack a huge punch of peat, which might be just the ticket for introducing someone to the wonders of Islay's smoky expressions.
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I love this drop, even when it deviates a bit from classic Laphroaig. Peat is there, yes, then ripe red fruits and oak, sherry cask ?! A hint of dryness at the end with a florally finish, bit of almond and citrus'y aftertaste. Definitely salt sea nose all the way. Well done Laphroaig.
Like other reviewers I find this one confused. Perhaps a good introduction to islay whiskies but not one I'll be buying again. I just can't see where it fits in the crowded market of decent but ultimately unexciting whiskies.
A confused whisky. Unlike others from the Island, lacks identity. A gentle introduction to Islay but no competition to the 15 yr. Old.
I only bought this as it was £24 reduced from £35. First time I've tried a peated malt and will be the last. Upon opening it smelt like kippers, and lo and behold it tastes like them too... kippers soaked in TCP. Worst single malt I've ever had and now I feel ill.
Soft peat flavours are more than made up for by often masked flavours in other strong smoky whiskeys from Laphroaig and other Islay producers. A pleasant drink with a touch of chilled water or an ice cube to bring out all the characters from the many casks. One of my personal favourites for when I want a bold scotch but nothing too peaty.
