Laphroaig 12 years old: the future of this classic Islay?
Laphroaig is one of the biggest – if not THE biggest Islay single malt whisky in terms of sales and legend. As one of the three from the Kildalton coast being around for well over 200 years, there was a lot of time to build up a reputation indeed. There is a lot of cult around Laphroaig whiskies from longer ago, and not only the independently bottled wonders from the 1960s. Some people swear that the standard 10 years old that was released up until 1990 / 2000 was easily one of the best out there. But just that standard 10 has lost some of its sparkle since this century began. We could write a book about why that is, but we won’t. It seems Laphroaig itself knows the difference between their commercial frontrunner, and single malt that is aimed at a more connoisseur audience. I found such a bottle on a discount just last week, and decided to fit it in my already cramped release schedule straight away. It is a traveller’s exclusive, apparently, but we found it at an online discounter and snapped it up. When you read the characteristics, you will see why.
Laphroaig 12 years old, Exclusive to Travellers, bottled at 46 % abv
First things first: Matured in American oak barrels, and indeed very light of colour. This is because Laphroaig bottled at natural colour, no artificial stuff added here. Also non-chill-filtered. So, two more years of ageing, higher abv, and a very naked approach. Let’s dive in!
Upon Sipping: Light on its feet, but very fragrant on traditional medicinal peat. Not too lemony, but more infused with tropical fruits. It is a fascinating back and forth play, from ash tray to fruit bowl. The nose is a tad too one-dimensional, but it is classic Laphroaig, so in a way job well done.
The taste is where I enjoy this Laphroaig Exclusive to Travellers the most, because it displays the classic peat but very much mingled with a tropical note of mango and peach. We know these elements well from (much) older Laphroaig, but to pick it up at quite a younger age, is surprising. And very welcome. It might be kicking in an open door here: but this is a step up from the regular 10 years old, I have to say. Even though I like that one too, this is a tad more rewarding, and the fruity elements more pronounced. Almost as if Laphroaig borrowed a page out the Ardbeg book. On repeated sipping, you will notice a nice viscosity that does justice to the Laphroaig spirit. The finish continues this wonderful dance between ashes and tropical fruits.
Word to the Wise: It would be a good thing to just phase out all these commercial elements out of all Laphroaig products. Those who buy this single malt whisky, do not care if their Laphroaig has the right colour or is just a little pale. They come for peat, elegance and power. This expression offers and delivers on all accounts. What a nice surprise, also for those who stay at home to enjoy this bottling of Laphroaig 12 years old.
Score: 87 points.