Laphroaig 15 year single malt is a product of the Island of Islay. Islay is located just off the southern coast of Scotland. The distilleries on the island pride themselves with making whisky that truly is characteristic to that area. The characteristics of Islay scotch whiskies are an apparent peat smoke, almonds, and salt. The salt obviously comes from being distilled on an island. Lagavulin and Ardberg are other Scotch Whiskies distilled in this area. The name Laphroaig means the "beautiful hollow by the broad bay". The distillery was founded in 1815 by the Johnston family and then it changed repeatedly until 1954. The distillery received a Royal Warrant by the Prince of Wales and the 15 year single malt is reported to be his favorite scotch. The royal emblem is actually on every bottle.
The presentation of the scotch is pretty typical. Normal cylinder casing with no real extras. I pulled the bottle out like a kid unwrapping a present at Christmas. It has been some time since I've had scotch due to financial reasons (note the abundance of cigar reviews). I uncork the bottle and get to it.
After smelling the cork I can immediately recognize the distinct smell of salt and smoke. So far the characteristics of Islay have wrung true. I got my favorite scotch glass, poured a couple fingers and added a few drops of water (this is recommended to make the "floral bouquet more apparent" - from the back of the bottle). The color of the scotch is bright gold. I would have to guess that the scotch is distilled a few times to reach this lighter shade. I did some research but came up empty.
On first taste there are tones of nutmeg and almonds but they are almost immediately overpowered by the salt and then by the smoke. The smoke taste comes so quickly that it is almost surprising. The combination of these make one mild, and for lack of a better word, conservative taste. The salt fades to leave just the smoke. There are some other notes but not enough to discern what they are since they leave quickly. The taste lingers just long enough so you know you just drank some good scotch but not long enough to make it uncomfortable.
I have enjoyed Lagavulin scotch ( a fellow Islay distillery) in the past and I have come to the conclusion that you have to enjoy the smokey taste of peated scotch to drink them. If you do not enjoy this taste then you will not enjoy this scotch. Lagavulin and Laphroaig are classic Islay scotches with plenty of salt and smoke. This scotch can be for beginners. It can be enjoyed on the rocks or neat. I will warn you that in my experience if you have it on the rocks the smokey taste will be even more apparent. Alot of people think that all whisky is like Jack Daniels or Wild Turkey. Not the case it can be enjoyed without making a face like someone just punched you in the stomach.
The Laphroaig website said that the 15 year is made in very limited quantities and may not be found in your local liquor store. I found a normal sized bottle at a store around the corner from my house for $64.99.
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