Tastes

In taking the time to truly enjoy the nose on this 95% rye whiskey you can't help but immediately notice the oak from the 12 year barrel aging. The toasted oak also brings vanilla and caramel. Further nosing reveals an undercurrent of dark fruits compliments of the triple wine casks. Upon tasting you discover right up front the spiciness of the rye and the toastiness of the oak. The dual kick gradually fades as the sweet fruit lingers on the palate. Long after the last taste a mild spicy pepperiness remains.

The nose does not deny the bourbon origins of this surprisingly complex whiskey, but the finish in Founders KBS Stout barrels provides notes of cocoa, milky/buttery, and nutty aroma. The bourbon sings on the start with traditional roasted vanilla and mild corn sweetness and finishes with delicious silky Stout that coats the palate with hints of chocolate covered oranges.

The PX Cask certainly has the smoke, although not as intense as other Islay Scotches, but is more balanced and refined on both the nose and palate. The complexity of the barrels is the real story here: oak bringing wood, vanilla, and caramel; PX sherry providing sweet fruit counter that is very enjoyable. There's also a hint of nuts, spices, and a little warmth from the 48%. If you like an Islay Scotch that does more than just punch you in the mouth with peaty smoke, then this edition's balance and complexity from Laphraoig is for you.

The nose is a complex compilation of grain, fruit, oak, and honey. While almost as smooth as its 12 year counterpart, this marvelous 21 year offering is deeper and ultimately more enjoyable on the palate. The fruit from the sherry casks and grain are up front and delicious with the slight sweetness and oak soon to follow. A lingering smoothness and spiciness is very memorable.