Laphroaig Montgomerie's 1990 - 18YO

Smokey bacon appears in Laphroaig tasting notes often BUT,, it really is very very apparent in the nose of this indie release. It becomes 'oilier' after a bit of time and then a touch of the classic iodine, seaweed and brininess comes through.

Sharp saltiness initially on tasting but then immediately after, the great Laphroaig peat and smoke we all love comes bursting through. Sweetness is there, and this is bringing back the memories of the boggy peat and seaweed laden shores as I viewed Ireland on the horizon, (yep it was a rare clear day when I visited the distillery, LOL)

(Now for a little anecdote - when I first tried Laphroaig 10, many many years ago, all I could taste was cigarette ash. I actually liked it, but it amazes me that now, with a bit more whisky tasting experience I can pick out the sweetness and other subtleties that were so unapparent when I was more of a novice).

It's actually quite a greasy, oily palate and finish. The smoke lingers for some time as it dries out to a coal-laiden tongue.

I opened this bottle a couple of months ago and to be honest I was not overly impressed, particularly given that it cost more than the official 18YO. It did taste a bit like smokey grease! But today it seems to have opened up somewhat, revealing a complex and quality whisky. With the added bonus of being colouring-free and un-chillfiltered.

Find where to buy Laphroaig whisky