Laphroaig has the distinction of producing a Scotch that people either absolutely hate or really enjoy. Which makes sense because who in their right might would enjoy a Laphroaig if they thought it was simply "ok?" Maybe there's a few people but probably not many. The distillery traces back it's beginnings to 1810 but is not officially established until 1815. Located on Islay (pronounced "Eye-la") region, it has a reputation of producing some of the most heavily peated whisky. It has been part of the Beam-Suntory family of brands since 2014. The Càirdeas Triple Wood is first matured in ex-bourbon barrels, then is aged in quarter casks (21 gallon barrel), and finally in ex-oloroso sherry casks. "Càirdeas" means friendship in Gaelic and is released exclusively for Friends of Laphroaig club. Bottled at cask strength, this 2019 bottling comes in at 119 proof or 59.5% ABV. On the nose there's lots of dried fruit, plums, dark cherry, and smoke. On the palate there's smoke, iodine, and band-aid notes at first. Those are quickly replaced by sweeter sherry cask influence with stewed fruits, honey, maple syrup followed by black pepper, beef jerky and smoked meat. The finish is fairly long with some chemical notes similar to furniture polish or varnish replaced by fruit sweetness and caramel. This is personally one of my favorite Laphroaig expressions I have tasted.