Single Malts of Scotland Laphroaig 9 year old Cask Strength 2013

Nose: crême brulee, pungeant peat, vanilla sugar, a young/fresh malt element. Salted Caramel apple, molasses. A slight earthy note. Palate: surprisingly sweet, crystalline brown sugar, phenolic peat, cinnamon. Granny smith apple. Caramel. Finish: oaky, phenolic peat, light sea water.

Nose: Earthy and sweet. Pine resin is joined by sticky BBQ sauce. Sea spray and cooling mint leaves cut through the richness. Palate: Complex. Embers from a BBQ fire are layered with robust, tarry notes. Licorice and dark chocolate provide a luscious, earthy combination with the comforting flavors of black tea, lemon, and honey. Finish: Fire dissipates to leave white pepper and a depth of flavor from umami and eucalyptus. Reviewed by: Producer