Review: Laphroaig Quarter Cask
Laphroaig Quarter Cask
Single Malt Scotch - Islay Region, Scotland
48% ABV
If you've never tried anything from Laphroaig before, or any whisky from Islay, Scotland for that matter, then buckle up because you're about to go for a ride. Personally my favorite region of single malt scotch whiskies, this is simply where the smoke is. So please consider yourself warned… Overall, Laphroaig is known for having a very medicinal and iodiney note in their whiskies on top of the smoke and peat aromas and flavors that Islay is known for. Their Quarter Cask certainly has all of those signature traits, but creates an even more unique wood character by using smaller barrels to age this particular whisky. These casks are 1/4 the size of the standard American ex-bourbon barrels that are typically used for the bulk of aging all of Scotland's whisky. These smaller quarter casks create more direct liquid to wood contact and a "more intense maturation process" as described by Laphroaig.
The nose is medicinal with a healthy dose of sea-salt spray and sweet smoke that will make you think you were just teleported to a campfire on the beach. The salt and smoke continue on the palate with charred wood and sweet, burnt, barbecued meat. The finish is medium-long and very warm with more charred wood. This is likely not the whisky for the average beginner, but if you are a fan of the smoke and looking for some of the biggest and boldest flavors to ever be put into a bottle, then this is definitely for you. Good luck!