Laphroaig QA Cask

It’s time for a non-USA, travel retail exclusive whisky from Laphroaig: QA Cask. “QA” is Latin for “quereus alba” and it means white oak. This offering is double matured- the first, typical aging in ex-bourbon cask and the second is fresh, American white oak cask. I find it funny that this is an offering made entirely of American wood, yet isn’t readily available here in the states. What the? It’s pale gold in color and has tons of skinny legs when you spin it up- due to the fact it’s watered down to the bare minimum of 40% ABV. It still retains that oily appearance found in most Laphroaigs, however. The nose is fresh cut oak, vanilla and youthful spirit. The smoke is very subdued and diluted and that makes it seem weaker on the nose than it actually drinks. On the tongue, more similarities: vanilla and oak barrel with a restrained smokiness. Sadly, none of these things seem to mingle together. It’s like you taste the oak and vanilla first, then some smoke and an uncanny dryness. The finish is medium length, with no barrel notes here. Sweet vanilla and the same dry feeling on the tongue. The oily appearance doesn’t transfer over into the actual mouthfeel a bit. It’s odd. Overall, I’m guessing they didn’t offer it over here because other than the faint smoke notes, there’s nothing much different than a weak, American bourbon. Maybe that’s what Europeans are looking for as a change of pace to typical, Islay smoked Laphroaig? The price point (minus international shipping) is very good: $59 for a liter. Lack of complexity and lack of any punch wouldn’t inspire me to purchase this again, but I’m glad I got a bottle to try. It’s purely middle of the road stuff, though. 2.5 stars. Cheers.