Laphroaig 13 Year Old 1998 A.D. Rattray

The independent bottler A.D. Rattray (previously Dewar Rattray) bottled part of a sherry butt (where did the rest go, I wonder?) that was filled with Laphroaig spirit on 23 March 1998. At what strength did they cask this beast, if you consider the fact that it is bottled after 13 years (on 27 April 2011) at a strength of 63,9%?

You must approach this alcohol bomb with respect as to not anaesthetize your nose by taking to big a whiff. The typical Laffie-character (citrus, peat, pepper and silt, in this case upholstered by a fat slice of bacon with rind), cannot beat the influence of sherry though. Quite an active cask, it would seem. Caramelized oranges, coffee, gingerbread, thyme and a bit of eucalyptus turn this into a splendid nose.

Despite the high ABV, it is very drinkable without water. The sherry, that keeps the Laffie under control, makes it round and creamy. What a mouthfeel! Wonderful balance between salty and sweet. Boy, this is the kind of whisky you want to savour in an armchair. So leave me alone for minute, ok?

The finish is long, very long. Sweet and salt at the same time, but sweet dominates. Very warming and smoky.

Fan-tas-tic Laffie! If this were a cognac, it would be labelled VSOP! Very Superior, indeed! If you love Laphroaig and you love a good sherried whisky, then this is for you!

Find where to buy Laphroaig whisky