Thanks for the review Ralfy! I've watched at leat 20 times more or your reviews than I own (and tasted) bottles as a fresh enthusiastic. I think this bottle adds perfectly to my (very) small wide spectrum of whiskies. I'm going to organise a tasting here for/with some of my very good friends, and we'll cheer on the nice malt moments you share with us. Slainte from the Netherlands!
Whether it was intentional or not, I really do have to thank Ralfy for honouring my request: a 30-minute review with Laphroaig 10 truth serum at his side, and there was a lot of truth spoken. Some young whiskies are indeed better than some old ones, but none are made better by having their age concealed. If many young whiskies are indeed as good as the industry wants to claim, then there’s no reason they shouldn’t carry age statements to prove it. Yet with the majority of NAS expressions, it can be deeply suspected - although not, by definition, proven - that NAS labels usually hide, not rare high-quality young malt, but far more common spirit which is simply immature and given a quality transfusion through the addition of older whisky so that it can (usually) limp into the 80’s and be sellable, if not really exceptional. Overall a good review and a good exploration of peat, and another great point was that “craft presentation” isn’t a guarantee of quality either, which is why information about age maturation and its quality is important to producers and consumers alike.
Ralfy, you are an absolute inspiration to me and I'm so glad to see you pass the 500th review mark! I hope for many, many, many more! Just a quick add-on. In this review you note that it is possible to kill foodborne bacteria that cause food poisoning by drinking spirits. While this is true to a very, very, very minor extent, I can't stress enough that this is a very dangerous thing to advocate. The amount of alcohol it would take to make a seriously big difference in reducing pathogenic bacteria would literally kill you before it killed the microbes. When you have food poisoning, your body uses up a bunch of its water to expel the pathogen (hence, diarrhea). Alcohol is a strong diuretic, thus making it a not so great choice when ill with a foodborne illness. On the other hand, I drink a dram or two when I have just a plain old cold! Not knocking the medicinal effects of whiskey, just pointing out some facts. (Source: I'm a geomicrobiologist) Cheers, and good health!
Hello there, Ralfy! Just wanted to thank you for all the great reviews, and for being there when I started my malt journey. I started really enjoying single malts a few years ago, and when I didn't know where to turn to for information, you were there. So thanks again, you miraculous malt marvel! Keep up the good work!
Thanks for your reviews Ralfy! I always go to your videos before buying a whisky, then while I try them for the first time I always drink with your video, hehe. I also love that you talk so much, you always have an opinion and I always learn something new. I shall be doing lots more whisky tastings this summer. Cheers from Mexico!
Hi Ralfy. Love your reviews. To correct you on something. You have reviewed Laphroaig 10yo before. It was review 272 when you gave it an 89. You also gave us a geography lesson with that one - loved it!! Regards Garry G
Of the Islay distilleries, those who still use floor maltings are Laphroaig, Kilchoman, and Bowmore. It's hard to say what percentage of the malt used is from the distillery's own floor maltings and how much comes from Port Ellen, but I agree with Ralfy that there is an added character when a distillery malts at least some of their own barley. For Laphroaig, it definitely helps influence the peat content. The other, non-Islay distilleries that still use floor maltings are Highland Park, Springbank, Balvenie, and Benriach.
Today is our Christmas Dinner in our family, after everyone leaves and things are put away and I get to settle down I am going to crack open my bottle of Laphroaig 10yo that I just picked up today and have a nice glass while watching this later on. I have had this Scotch several times in the past and love it each and every time. I know Ralfy will have a lot of good to say about it before even watching this video.
Eventhough I've never been too fond of whiskeys, I started my 1st love for whiskey with Laghroaig 10yo, & this outstanding gentleman is feeding my all new passion with a big smile!
Every year or two my family vacations at Cape Cod (U.S., Massachusetts) which also has its fair share of peat bogs. On the bay side, you get low tides that expose hundreds of feet of mucky sand and shore with a very powerful, distinct, organic smell. I think of that frequently when nosing certain peated malts and have been using "low tide" as a tasting note for years, so when you referred to low tide I knew exactly what you were talking about!
Ralfy is so good at describing flavors and smells. I never know what to call a lot of the smells I get, calcium is one I will have to remember, because I would never have thought to call it that, but hearing you really rings a bell! Kind of interesting to hear what different people call aromas. I thought some distillers consider caramel colorant "natural color" so it has to say no color added, I thought in the example of some macallan "natural color" does not mean it is un colord.
sorry to be offtopic but does any of you know of a trick to log back into an instagram account? I stupidly lost my password. I appreciate any tips you can give me!
Hi Ralfy. Thanks for the re-rev update. Wonderful unseasonably cold Autumn day here in the NE US. Fulfilling todays peated malt moment with two stunning towers of flavour. Ardmore Trad accompanied by an Arturo Fuente Don Carlos smoke stick. Let the world end tomorrow it doesn't get any better than this. Any Fuente Fans out there in Ralfyland? How bout you Ralfy, what's your favorite Fuente?! cheers
Thumbs up for all the reviews, really like to watch them! and I love the peat in the 10y.o., I also have the quarter cask (8years) but I like this one better, I just love peat! But why does this one get 87, and the caramel added 12 y.o. Old Pulteney get a 90?
I got a bottle of Laph 10 and a bottle of Laph Quarter Cask for my birthday in July. A few months later I found I had drunk 2/3 of the QC bottle after only having 2 or 3 drams of the 10yr. Eventually, I began mixing the two in equal parts and added a splash of cool bottled water. It was a truly great dram. When I got down to about 1/4 bottle of the QC, I just poured the rest into the 10yr old, to nearly fill the bottle. I haven't had a dram of my new "blend"yet. I'll let you know!
Superb review. So much information and different subjects crammed into a single video. Please speak more about the effects of chilled filtering. It's a really important subject and lacking knowledge. Your comments about how age of maturation affects peat influence is also worthy of a separate video. I noticed this with Caol Ila 18 YO and especially with Laphroaig 18 YO. I know what you mean about getting hung up on peat monsters. I started with Speysides, Highlands, was dissapointed with Lowlands, then moved on to the Islands and then discovered Islays and got stuck with Laphroaig, Ardbeg and Caol Ila. Thanks entirely to you Ralfy, I rediscovered whiskies outside Islay with the likes of Glencadam 10 and 15 YO, Tomintoul 14 YO, Old Poultney Noss Head (superb whisky and well worth a review) and Clynelish 14 YO. As a result I feel that my whisky experience is so much more rounded. Based on your recommendation I purchased a Glengyle Kilkerran Ex-Bourbon. I must admit that I’m having difficulties finding the right water balance with this. However you did say in your review to be patient with this one. It’s not easy.
I recently had a chance to try the Select, along with the Triple Wood, Quarter Cask, and the new Cairdeas. The rep told a great story about the Select, but I was underwhelmed. The Triple Wood was the pick of that group, for my taste buds. I love your story about the 4 year old Ladaig. I hope the distillers learn from this and stop being afraid to share age info on young whisky.
16:30. Living in the UK and enjoying the Scotch market for the first time was eye opening. Light colored whiskies were interesting, complex and satisfying. I do however still find I really do enjoy the darker whiskies better if they got their color from sherry casks.
I think the passion for peat, as you said, has to do with the intensity of the experience, and it's depth/complexity, since I'm a huge fan of spicy or intense flavors like peppers/capsaicin, ginger, garlic, etc, but there's also the fact that peat is such a truly unique flavor experience. I can associate many spirits to flavors we experience in different foods, but I can't get the peat experience anywhere else in the world, and that makes it magical for me.
Having watched the later reviews on Laphroaig 10 year old I took Ralfys advice to check on earlier ones to get a timeline on what his opinion to the changes would be. As always top notch assessment of the notes & solid knowledge of the production & the brand. Very good discussion about the peaty whiskies & he is right its not to everybody’s taste , a bit like Marmite i personally find it gives the whisky character & a distinctive appeal but Ralfys assessment it’s the casking & maturation & time within the cask & what that cask previously contained that will give it a different aspect that can reduce or increase the underlying peat experience on the palate was spot on . Can’t comment on what Laphroaig tasted like then but it tastes like an excellent malt in September 2022 .
Ralfy, I reside in a town of 10,000 in the Red River valley of north Texas. Our liquor store stocks a handful of single malt Scotch. Do you know if distilleries make any demands on retailers as to how long a bottle can remain on a shelf? Is it possible that If I bought a bottle of Laphroaig 10 in a low-demand single malt shop, the spirit may be 12-14 years old? Do most distillers place time stamps or other temporal IDs on packaging?
Awesome review as always mate. Went to Islay a few months back (awesome place), Bowmore also does some of their own Malting (turned some!) and Kilning (we went in the kiln shin deep in barley! :)). If you make it to Islay, Bowmore is awesome. So is Bruichladdich...And Ardbed! Well, they all are obviously! :-)
Bought a bottle of this a while ago, tried it and at first did not like it. It quickly grew on me and is now one of my favourites. I'll have to wait until its on offer again to buy more
You must have a friend from the US send you the 43% version. I would be very interested to see a comparison from 40% vs 43%. Im pretty sure 43% would win.
You know what the peat obsession also reminds me of? Hops! I love a super bitter, hoppy beer, but I'm still working on my tolerance to peat. It's building though. :)
I'm the opposite, I love peated whisky but really dont enjoy super hopped up beers. Although I tried a few of brewdogs ipa's and they were quite nice, I still prefer sweet heavy Scottish beer or German wheat beers.
I have had a Dram at my Local here in Brooklyn, I bought my first bottle of Laphroaig 10 earlier tonight and I am enjoying a Slow Tasting from a sampling Snifter. Enjoying it Very Much. The Smokey Peat is overwhelming my mouth with a pleasant oily coating in the finish. I Enjoy Lapsong Sogong Tea as a campfire in a Cup and Laphroaig 10 gives me a similar experience.
I just had this whiskey last night my friend who loves whiskey bought me a glass of it at a cigar shop as it is my first time ever trying any kind of scotch/whiskey, just a question what did you pour in the glass around 9:45
Really interesting to hear the bit about how the perceived peatey-ness of the whisky will reduce as the whisky ages. I really, _really_ like strongly peated whisky. So it could very well be that for my tastes, the 10 would be a more enjoyable experience than something older. I'm still quite naive when it comes to whisky. It seems obvious in hindsight, but until now I hadn't considered the idea that someone's subjective enjoyment of a younger whisky could actually be superior to that of an older one. So I learned something today! Thanks for the review. :)
Another good review. Any suggestions for a malt-mate venturing into the more peated whiskies? I really like Jura Superstition, but haven't venured too far our of that and Ardbeg.
This was the first whisky I ever liked, and wow, did I ever fall in love at once. It was certainly what got me into really enjoying spirits more. Later on, I've come to enjoy the Laphroaig Quarter Cask more than the 10 y.o., and I think the Aberlour A'bunadh stands as my all time favourite whisky, but the Laphroaig 10 y.o. will always have a special place in my heart. :)
Hi Ralfy Thanks for another lesson in the finer things in life,I really do look forward to them, when I have a glass of whisky, I appreciate it that much more. I have two quick questions for you, sorry one request and one question, the request is can you please do a vlog on the many hard to pronounce names of some of the whisky and my question is when they say a spring cap what do they mean, I know what a screw cap is and a cork stopper, but I don't know what a spring cap is on a bottle Thanks again Ralfy Regards Kevin
Pronunciation: www.dcs.ed.ac.uk/home/jhb/whisky/pronounc.html The above is accurate, but dry. The below one is much more enjoyable! www.esquire.com/features/drinking/scotch-pronunciation-guide-5836909
@ 6:00 ++ min I have to disagree, Ralfy. Usually a bad stomach or real food poisoning is caused by toxins produced by bacteria or molds that spoiled the food. Alcohol, unfortunalety, does not kill toxins. It is one itself. Besides, the majority of bacteria taken up together with our food is killed in our stomach anyway due to its relatively high acidity. To kill bacteria savely with alcohol its strength needs to be around 70% Vol. Lower or higher conentrations just inhibit microbial growth. Here you go. Now you know. :P Apart from that: Thank you for regular output of finest infotainment and congrats to your 500! =)
The first time I ever saw this was at a regular bar I frequent, Laphroaig gave them a bottle to sample, and my favourite barmaid gave me a glass gratis, I was instantly in love with this peaty beauty and have bought many bottles of this as well as Laphroaig quarter cask, this is probably my all time favourite spirit. ( Well, sometimes I'm just in the mood for a good bourbon as well ) :^)
Ralfy, You reviewed Laphroaig 10 yr 40% in WR272, one of your reviews covering the Scotch Whisky Regions. Back in WR272, you gave the Laphroaig 10 yr an 89 malt mark.
Ralfy, I would like to contrast the big peaty personality of Lapghoaig with a big smokey/no peat single malt. Is there such as single malt(s)? Thanks, Curtis
Laphroaig 10 has been my go-to peated single malt for some years now, but I've enjoyed recent bottles of cask strength 10 even more. Perhaps a re-review of the cask strength is in order as well?
Great review as always, Ralfy! Regarding the malting and kilning of Islay whisky: it's not just Laphroaig and Kilchoman. They also do a proportion of it themselves at Bowmore, right?
Tried the Select at Whisky Live Boston where I was thrilled to meet John Campbell and Simon Brooking. So on the matter of the Select-- it reminds me of that old saying "If you can't say something nice... etc." Same thing with the Old Pulteney Clipper, another NAS. There are some good NAS, but initially be skeptical my friends, be skeptical. Even my favorite distilleries seem to be succumbing.
Today,China's middle class is estimated to be 300 million people. That is almost the entire USA population. It is estimated (conservatively) to grow to 700 to 800 million, which is 50% to 60% of China's entire population. They have discovered Single Malt Scotch Whisky. They like it with green tea. That is just one developing country. Eastern Europe, Brazil, and SE Asia has an emerging middle class too. The demand is forcing the rich corporations to be super greedy.
Loving these reviews - they're a brilliant education for us Single-Malt neophytes, thank you Ralfy! I'd really like your opinion - & other folks' comments on the Smokehead Extra Rare. It was my 1st Single Malt purchase & I LOVED it! The Intensity of the Peat, iodine & seaweed blew me away! I think I'm going to buy another bottle, but I'm considering the Laphroaig QC & Ardbeg 10. Any advice on how best to start the journey into Single Malts? I'm also considering buying a raft of miniatures as a low-cost way to become familiar with the different styles of scotch. Comments & advice greatly appreciated! Thank you you MALTY Munchkins!!!!
Fantastic review as always! And the instructive content never stops coming. Thanks a lot Ralfy, and I loved your #500 (which covered my personal favourite distillery that I've ever sampled: Ardbeg). It was actually quite an artistic, relaxing, and pleasant video. I could actually almost smell the aromas, and that kind of visceral experience is something I've usually only found from high-level comedians or storytellers. I almost always have a bottle of Laphroaig 10yr in my house (the 43% version). The price-performance of this 10 year-old whisky is near the top of the chart. The only 10yr that I've had that I slightly prefer is Ardbeg's. I'm just a massive peat fan. Would I be out of place to suggest people check out Laphroaig's distillery tour video? If this is seen as advertising or something, I sincerely apologise, and will remove this link right away: Laphroaig Distillery Tour I suggest it because it gives a very light, quick summary of the distilling process, starting with the water and the peat field. Again, I apologise if this is not permitted, but I found the video fascinating. Not as good as your Whisky Review 177, of course! But much shorter. Speaking of which, I'd also recommend Ralfy's own Whisky Review 177, a 7-part video series at Springbank, for more in-depth information and instruction about this topic. It's a classic, and if you haven't seen it, it's a must-watch. It starts here: whisky review 177 1/7 - Springbank Distillery with Peter (part 1)
Ralfy I absolutely love your videos and find them inspiring... I recently picked up a bottle of the new Jura turas mara and found it very complex and rich... Do you think it's worth a review???
I liked the Laphroaig 10 Year, I took it on our 8-day Disney cruise. It was nice sitting by the pool, sipping good Whisky! But, I think I prefer Ardbeg for the Islay's. Wife bought a bottle of Uigeadail for our 8th Anniversary. It was delicious!!!
I love the peat and it smells differently in each distillery has it's own signature for it. I find it impossible to pick favourites caol ila is a bonefire... ardbeg is like a damp marine cellar, Laphroaig is like seaweed but burnt. It's all fantastic a bit of a nature's cheat is that dopamine that relates to it... it really kicks you to heaven. Do we love it because of that? or because they are fantastic young spirits none the less. Ralfy more about peat chemical magic, please ;-D
Thanks for the review Ralfy, interesting thoughts on the whiskey aging. Btw - what is the three legged symbol in the background? I have noticed it moves around in different reviews. Cheers!
Superb review, even better than the first time you reviewed the 10 yo. ;) I really had to pour myself a dram of the QC to watch this one. Maybe it would have been worth to mention the QC as an alternative to the 10 yo instead of the Select. I know that you have reviewed it previously and highlighted it's qualities, but it is always worth mentioning that there are some NAS whiskys out there (increasingly low numbers unfortunately) that are worth checking out. Having said that, the QC is in the UK priced very similar to the 10 yo so maybe nobody would select that instead of the "select". (Apologies for the very poor play on words joke). btw NAS: My favorite Laphroaig expression so far is the NAS Lp5. Really superb stuff.
I used to like the Quarter Cask, and strongly support your post that Laphroaig kept the price of the QC way way below what their competitors do with their NAS releases.
B Basidium Haven't tried the Quarter Cask in the new style packaging. I loved the old one though and agree that if 10 is not available or even if it is, the QC is a great well balanced peat dram. But please, don't waste you money on the QA. It's terrible and frankly, if I were Laphroaig I'd be embarrassed by it. It's that bad. The 18 YO is much sweeter, toffee and the peat is in the background. However the king of Laphroaig is definitely the 10 YO Cask Strength. It is a pure delight!
Ralfy - I went to visit the Dutch International Whisky Festival yesterday in The Hague. I came across single grain whiskies that I am very new to. I tried the Clan Denny Single Cask (Carsebridge Distillery), 1981 - 30 year old. I was very positively surprised. They are not that common in the shops... any chance that you'll be reviewing more single grains any time soon?
enjoying a dram as I watch this. bunnahabhain 12 and bruichladdich classic were my introduction, and I was not sure if I was up for the more peaty single malts; but I do say I like this very much. look forward to learning more from your channel. cheers
Hi Ralfy, Do you know whether Berry Brothers have kept some of that Ledaig 4yo to age and will be releasing an older version of it in the future? Bought a Ledaig after I saw your review of that 4yo a few years ago and really enjoyed it. Your vlogs have been great learning resources for me. Thanks.
Hi Ralfy, I see where you're coming from with Laphroig Select nevertheless I would have liked to hear your opinion about that Whisky (thinking about buying it anyway...). Anyway, is there a chance for a series on Non Age Statement Whiskys? I think there are some out there, that seem to be quite decent: Tomatin Legacy (tried it, liked it), Auchentoshan American Oak, Laphroaig Triple Wood, Bushmills 1608 Anniversary (tried it, liked it), Ardmore Legacy. Btw: recently tried Teachers Highland Cream because of your review. Suprising how good a Whisky, that is even cheaper than J.W. red, can be (I think I bought it for about 10€, maybe less... was a special offer). Looking forward to you're next reviews
No better time for a rash a Ralfy re-reviews than this side of 500 maltmate. You got paleeeeenty of easy access off the shelf brands that haven't been looked at in years. Literally! Is Jonnie Walker Black still top dog in the blend world? What about Ardbeg 10...still value packed? Is the Quarter Cask still a viable malt. Its hard to ignore the old standbys when prices have skyrocketed since last reviewed! cheers Ralfy
I've watched many of your reviews and I was really interested to hear your thoughts on Laphroaig 10yo because it's one of the most accessible peaty whiskeys available here in the states. It also happens to be one of my favorite Scotches. I do appreciate your thoughts on all the whiskeys you review, and I am in awe of the perceptiveness of your palate. However, I feel you're discrediting a non-age statement whiskey without giving it a try. If you're adamant about not purchasing it for review, nothing I have to say will change your mind, but I feel a good reviewer should experience the entire range of whiskeys when available, preconceived notions notwithstanding, and give an honest impression no matter what is presented. Whichever you decide, you can be assured I will be watching. Cheers.
It's been awhile since Whisky review 500. I am guessing the reason is, you have been to the, Glasgow whisky festival. Anyway thanks for the, Laphroaig review, I used to like Islay Malts but I now find I can't drink them anymore, the next review you are doing, sounds right up my street.
How do you think the 10YO fares VS the Quarter Cask ? I wanted to try Laphroaig and was split between the two. I figured I'd go with QC for the higher ABV and even its got no age mention, it can't be that far from 10YO. I found the 10YO a bit too pricey for a 40% ABV whisky.
Ralfy, disregard the previous question, you covered the answer to it. I do have to wonder I hear very little about Bowmore. Is that not peated? Is it well respected? Mike Maryland, USA
Interesting video as always ralfy! Have you ever given a 95/100 malt mark? What is the best whisky you have ever experienced? I'm not saying that your recommendation will give me any hopes of anything spectacular, it would just be interesting to know. Thanks as always for the informative video!
Hi, Ralphie! I bought Laphroaig 10, Talisker 10, Ardbeg 10, Highland Park 12. More did not open :) What whisky will approach as a winter version? drink cold evenings all 3 whisky Isla volume of 1 L. Do not leave the aroma from the bottle, if you drink a long time?
As always, a terrific review and useful information to make our whisky enjoyment better. I've been trying peated whisky since your reviews from the peat bog Ralfy, and they have grown on me. I'll pick up a bottle the next time I'm in the shop. How much does the experience change when you go from 40% to 43%? Stay well, Ossie
Ralfy, what are you using "fusil" (not sure that's the correct spelling) to describe. I understand the general intent, but sometimes my american accent pronounces words differently. The definition I found was " An Elongated Lozenge". Love the review Laphroaig is one of my favorites.
I actually just got a bottle of this, at the 43%, for an early birthday present to myself. I found it absolutely fascinating.. This is my first real departure from bourbon as far as whisky is concerned.. I haven't tried adding water yet, but I think I will the next time I have a little of this....I was also wondering, do I need to keep it in the tube to keep the light off or would it be ok to just put the bottle on the shelf?
whisky is not that sensitive but keep it away from direct sunlight. also i have found out that those cardboard tubes are very good at keeping the temperature of the bottle. naked bottles will be exposed to changes in temperature easier. for example if you switch your radiator on/off all the time. condensation is the Whisky's worst enemy.
How would you rank Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Lagavulin and Talisker in terms of peatiness? which is the most peated? I've never had a peated whiskey, so I'm wondering which one I should go for first?
this is not the first time I have been wondering about a specific bottle or distillery only to find Ralfy mentions it the next day. in this case Laphroaig select, I had my doubts and once again Mr Mitchell saves my cash. In between new vlogs I am trying to mop up the odd ones I haven't yet watched.
Ralfy have you had a chance to try the 2014 ardbeg supernova? What are your thoughts on it? Do you think it should or should not be compared to the 2009/2010 version's? I've read very positive reviews and very poor reviews... Seeing that it is kinda expensive would really like to hear what you think about it... Thanks
I looked forward to the annual NAS release from Ardbeg with baited breath. Every year I read up on it, and ran to the liquor store as soon as they arrived. After five years - no more. It's like Bill Gates releasing new Microsoft versions every year. None are unique. None are revolutionary. And not one has an age statement. A quick buck.
B Basidium Ardbeg XP. So much better than anything before it. Full of faults, slight sour notes but overall, well balanced. Packed with promising flavours. Could only get better with maturity (or so we thought). Ardbeg Vista, heavy Chilled Filtering. Too much effort to please those who are insecure about their whiskies and as a result, lacking consistancy and balance. Skip this one. It should have been called "A work in Progress". Ardbeg Cask Strength 7. Got it just right. Beautifiully balanced, dependable and consistent experience straight out the bottle and continues even after oxidisation. Totally reliable, delicious middle and finish lasts and lasts. Packed with flavour. Suitable for all occasions but prefers a large heavy glass to get the most from it. Unfortuneately, they have discontinued this but If you see one on the shelf, grab it, it's better than the current version despite the marketing hype. Ardbeg No Age Statement 8 and the update - Octomore 8.1. The marketing would have you believe that this is a dram for all occasions and glasses yet fails to deliver on any level. It's imature and overall flavour is flat and bearly drinkable. If you prefer your whisky experience with a heavy Gencairn glass then forget it. Stick to the Cask Strength discontinued 7. In truth the 8 tastes more like a confused Blend rather than a Single Malt and that's why it's been a marketing disaster. All is not lost though. Just around the corner there is Ardbeg SuperNova 10 bottled at 61.3%, unchilled filtered but there are rumours that it's still contains some E150a colouring. A hugh improvement and a return to the quality of Ardbeg 7. Based on early sample releases, this is a dram worth waiting for and savouring. Let's just hope that before this release comes out on the general market, GlenGoogle Ex-Android Virgin Cask has not completely flooded the market.
Mooseydog Yep, certain distillers know from market research that American customers prefer higher ABVs. Thus Balvenie, Macallan, and Laphroaig (to name a few) send us the 43% versions.
Ralfy, do you give a whisky the same rating on whisky-monitor that you give it as a malt mark on ralfystuff? In other words, do you hold a higher standard when rating as a "Malt Maniac" vs your own vlog reviews?
Hi Ralfy, in duty free in Israel i found New version of Lafroaig 15, and i can,t believe it is Farved mitt caramel, why they do that ? I dont understand.and the price was 109 dollars , not cheap.
you don't keep whisky open for few years... when it wasn't you can store it untill it crumbles to dust rly. Opened it will diminish. I'd say if it's half bottle don't keep it longer than 3-6 months.
Changes in a closed bottle of strong distilled alcohol are very very subtle. In theory it would diminish as that's what oxidization does to peat. But you really won't have reference point nor will it be noticeable. One thing you can do is using some industrial high quality vaccum seal that will be certified to last that long. It's what they do in industry. I don't think it will be woth the cost for you and it won't be original sealing thus bottle will be worthless.
A great way to describe Peat to some one who has not tasted it is: it taste like what an active barn or horse stable smells like (in a good way)! Wet, decaying straw and hay with a touch of farm manure, particularly horse shit. Believe it or not I am a big fan of peat and this particular Laphroaig.
Thanks for the review Ralfy! I've watched at leat 20 times more or your reviews than I own (and tasted) bottles as a fresh enthusiastic. I think this bottle adds perfectly to my (very) small wide spectrum of whiskies. I'm going to organise a tasting here for/with some of my very good friends, and we'll cheer on the nice malt moments you share with us. Slainte from the Netherlands!
. . . good luck with your malt-mission !
Whether it was intentional or not, I really do have to thank Ralfy for honouring my request: a 30-minute review with Laphroaig 10 truth serum at his side, and there was a lot of truth spoken. Some young whiskies are indeed better than some old ones, but none are made better by having their age concealed. If many young whiskies are indeed as good as the industry wants to claim, then there’s no reason they shouldn’t carry age statements to prove it. Yet with the majority of NAS expressions, it can be deeply suspected - although not, by definition, proven - that NAS labels usually hide, not rare high-quality young malt, but far more common spirit which is simply immature and given a quality transfusion through the addition of older whisky so that it can (usually) limp into the 80’s and be sellable, if not really exceptional. Overall a good review and a good exploration of peat, and another great point was that “craft presentation” isn’t a guarantee of quality either, which is why information about age maturation and its quality is important to producers and consumers alike.
"The label's the contract". Brilliant!
Ralfy, you are an absolute inspiration to me and I'm so glad to see you pass the 500th review mark! I hope for many, many, many more!
Just a quick add-on. In this review you note that it is possible to kill foodborne bacteria that cause food poisoning by drinking spirits. While this is true to a very, very, very minor extent, I can't stress enough that this is a very dangerous thing to advocate. The amount of alcohol it would take to make a seriously big difference in reducing pathogenic bacteria would literally kill you before it killed the microbes. When you have food poisoning, your body uses up a bunch of its water to expel the pathogen (hence, diarrhea). Alcohol is a strong diuretic, thus making it a not so great choice when ill with a foodborne illness. On the other hand, I drink a dram or two when I have just a plain old cold! Not knocking the medicinal effects of whiskey, just pointing out some facts.
(Source: I'm a geomicrobiologist)
Cheers, and good health!
Hello there, Ralfy! Just wanted to thank you for all the great reviews, and for being there when I started my malt journey. I started really enjoying single malts a few years ago, and when I didn't know where to turn to for information, you were there. So thanks again, you miraculous malt marvel! Keep up the good work!
Thanks for your reviews Ralfy! I always go to your videos before buying a whisky, then while I try them for the first time I always drink with your video, hehe.
I also love that you talk so much, you always have an opinion and I always learn something new.
I shall be doing lots more whisky tastings this summer. Cheers from Mexico!
Hi Ralfy. Love your reviews. To correct you on something. You have reviewed Laphroaig 10yo before. It was review 272 when you gave it an 89. You also gave us a geography lesson with that one - loved it!!
Regards
Garry G
Of the Islay distilleries, those who still use floor maltings are Laphroaig, Kilchoman, and Bowmore. It's hard to say what percentage of the malt used is from the distillery's own floor maltings and how much comes from Port Ellen, but I agree with Ralfy that there is an added character when a distillery malts at least some of their own barley. For Laphroaig, it definitely helps influence the peat content.
The other, non-Islay distilleries that still use floor maltings are Highland Park, Springbank, Balvenie, and Benriach.
Today is our Christmas Dinner in our family, after everyone leaves and things are put away and I get to settle down I am going to crack open my bottle of Laphroaig 10yo that I just picked up today and have a nice glass while watching this later on. I have had this Scotch several times in the past and love it each and every time. I know Ralfy will have a lot of good to say about it before even watching this video.
Eventhough I've never been too fond of whiskeys, I started my 1st love for whiskey with Laghroaig 10yo, & this outstanding gentleman is feeding my all new passion with a big smile!
Every year or two my family vacations at Cape Cod (U.S., Massachusetts) which also has its fair share of peat bogs. On the bay side, you get low tides that expose hundreds of feet of mucky sand and shore with a very powerful, distinct, organic smell. I think of that frequently when nosing certain peated malts and have been using "low tide" as a tasting note for years, so when you referred to low tide I knew exactly what you were talking about!
Ralfy is so good at describing flavors and smells. I never know what to call a lot of the smells I get, calcium is one I will have to remember, because I would never have thought to call it that, but hearing you really rings a bell! Kind of interesting to hear what different people call aromas.
I thought some distillers consider caramel colorant "natural color" so it has to say no color added, I thought in the example of some macallan "natural color" does not mean it is un colord.
Was sharing this nice glass with you you hit everything on the mark
Ralphy is the best and most pleasant of all whiskey drinkers, I know.
sorry to be offtopic but does any of you know of a trick to log back into an instagram account?
I stupidly lost my password. I appreciate any tips you can give me!
@Dennis Brantley instablaster =)
Hi Ralfy. Thanks for the re-rev update.
Wonderful unseasonably cold Autumn day here in the NE US. Fulfilling todays peated malt moment with two stunning towers of flavour. Ardmore Trad accompanied by an Arturo Fuente Don Carlos smoke stick. Let the world end tomorrow it doesn't get any better than this.
Any Fuente Fans out there in Ralfyland?
How bout you Ralfy, what's your favorite Fuente?!
cheers
Thumbs up for all the reviews, really like to watch them! and I love the peat in the 10y.o., I also have the quarter cask (8years) but I like this one better, I just love peat!
But why does this one get 87, and the caramel added 12 y.o. Old Pulteney get a 90?
I got a bottle of Laph 10 and a bottle of Laph Quarter Cask for my birthday in July. A few months later I found I had drunk 2/3 of the QC bottle after only having 2 or 3 drams of the 10yr. Eventually, I began mixing the two in equal parts and added a splash of cool bottled water. It was a truly great dram. When I got down to about 1/4 bottle of the QC, I just poured the rest into the 10yr old, to nearly fill the bottle. I haven't had a dram of my new "blend"yet. I'll let you know!
how about now??
Superb review. So much information and different subjects crammed into a single video.
Please speak more about the effects of chilled filtering. It's a really important subject and lacking knowledge.
Your comments about how age of maturation affects peat influence is also worthy of a separate video. I noticed this with Caol Ila 18 YO and especially with Laphroaig 18 YO.
I know what you mean about getting hung up on peat monsters. I started with Speysides, Highlands, was dissapointed with Lowlands, then moved on to the Islands and then discovered Islays and got stuck with Laphroaig, Ardbeg and Caol Ila. Thanks entirely to you Ralfy, I rediscovered whiskies outside Islay with the likes of Glencadam 10 and 15 YO, Tomintoul 14 YO, Old Poultney Noss Head (superb whisky and well worth a review) and Clynelish 14 YO. As a result I feel that my whisky experience is so much more rounded.
Based on your recommendation I purchased a Glengyle Kilkerran Ex-Bourbon. I must admit that I’m having difficulties finding the right water balance with this. However you did say in your review to be patient with this one. It’s not easy.
I've watched so many of your videos over the last few days I'm starting to pick up a scottish accent. totally badass.
+LevitatorMusic . . . happy to help with your accented malt-moments !
Very good review Ralf. You looked as if you enjoyed it.
Just received a bottle a week ago. I live in the U.S. and it is bottled at 43%. Interesting how that works. Great review, Ralfly!
I recently had a chance to try the Select, along with the Triple Wood, Quarter Cask, and the new Cairdeas. The rep told a great story about the Select, but I was underwhelmed. The Triple Wood was the pick of that group, for my taste buds. I love your story about the 4 year old Ladaig. I hope the distillers learn from this and stop being afraid to share age info on young whisky.
16:30. Living in the UK and enjoying the Scotch market for the first time was eye opening. Light colored whiskies were interesting, complex and satisfying. I do however still find I really do enjoy the darker whiskies better if they got their color from sherry casks.
this is one of my favorite whisky...There you go now you know... thank you Sir ralfy
I think the passion for peat, as you said, has to do with the intensity of the experience, and it's depth/complexity, since I'm a huge fan of spicy or intense flavors like peppers/capsaicin, ginger, garlic, etc, but there's also the fact that peat is such a truly unique flavor experience.
I can associate many spirits to flavors we experience in different foods, but I can't get the peat experience anywhere else in the world, and that makes it magical for me.
Having watched the later reviews on Laphroaig 10 year old I took Ralfys advice to check on earlier ones to get a timeline on what his opinion to the changes would be. As always top notch assessment of the notes & solid knowledge of the production & the brand. Very good discussion about the peaty whiskies & he is right its not to everybody’s taste , a bit like Marmite i personally find it gives the whisky character & a distinctive appeal but Ralfys assessment it’s the casking & maturation & time within the cask & what that cask previously contained that will give it a different aspect that can reduce or increase the underlying peat experience on the palate was spot on . Can’t comment on what Laphroaig tasted like then but it tastes like an excellent malt in September 2022 .
Ralfy, I reside in a town of 10,000 in the Red River valley of north Texas. Our liquor store stocks a handful of single malt Scotch. Do you know if distilleries make any demands on retailers as to how long a bottle can remain on a shelf? Is it possible that If I bought a bottle of Laphroaig 10 in a low-demand single malt shop, the spirit may be 12-14 years old? Do most distillers place time stamps or other temporal IDs on packaging?
Awesome review as always mate. Went to Islay a few months back (awesome place), Bowmore also does some of their own Malting (turned some!) and Kilning (we went in the kiln shin deep in barley! :)). If you make it to Islay, Bowmore is awesome. So is Bruichladdich...And Ardbed! Well, they all are obviously! :-)
Bought a bottle of this a while ago, tried it and at first did not like it. It quickly grew on me and is now one of my favourites. I'll have to wait until its on offer again to buy more
You must have a friend from the US send you the 43% version. I would be very interested to see a comparison from 40% vs 43%. Im pretty sure 43% would win.
You know what the peat obsession also reminds me of? Hops! I love a super bitter, hoppy beer, but I'm still working on my tolerance to peat. It's building though. :)
I'm the opposite, I love peated whisky but really dont enjoy super hopped up beers. Although I tried a few of brewdogs ipa's and they were quite nice, I still prefer sweet heavy Scottish beer or German wheat beers.
I love a good hoppy IPA with a peaty whisky - Talisker 10 and Bengal Lancer IPA is a pairing i'd recommend.
I have had a Dram at my Local here in Brooklyn, I bought my first bottle of Laphroaig 10 earlier tonight and I am enjoying a Slow Tasting from a sampling Snifter. Enjoying it Very Much. The Smokey Peat is overwhelming my mouth with a pleasant oily coating in the finish. I Enjoy Lapsong Sogong Tea as a campfire in a Cup and Laphroaig 10 gives me a similar experience.
My all time favorite - instant atmosphere, powerful stuff!
Great Video Ralfy, Laphroaig is my favourite of the standard cheaper bottles around :)
Kilchoman states on their home page, that it is one of only six distilleries in Scotland that carries out its own traditional floor maltings.
I just had this whiskey last night my friend who loves whiskey bought me a glass of it at a cigar shop as it is my first time ever trying any kind of scotch/whiskey, just a question what did you pour in the glass around 9:45
teaspoons of water
Really interesting to hear the bit about how the perceived peatey-ness of the whisky will reduce as the whisky ages. I really, _really_ like strongly peated whisky. So it could very well be that for my tastes, the 10 would be a more enjoyable experience than something older.
I'm still quite naive when it comes to whisky. It seems obvious in hindsight, but until now I hadn't considered the idea that someone's subjective enjoyment of a younger whisky could actually be superior to that of an older one.
So I learned something today! Thanks for the review. :)
An absolute Ralfy masterpiece. Well done!
enjoyed this a lot :) having a glass while watching great video sir
Another good review. Any suggestions for a malt-mate venturing into the more peated whiskies? I really like Jura Superstition, but haven't venured too far our of that and Ardbeg.
I have been drinking Laphroig as of this year, and Absolutely Love it!!, Thank you Laphroig, from the Midwest.
This was the first whisky I ever liked, and wow, did I ever fall in love at once. It was certainly what got me into really enjoying spirits more. Later on, I've come to enjoy the Laphroaig Quarter Cask more than the 10 y.o., and I think the Aberlour A'bunadh stands as my all time favourite whisky, but the Laphroaig 10 y.o. will always have a special place in my heart. :)
Hi Ralfy
Thanks for another lesson in the finer things in life,I really do look forward to them, when I have a glass of whisky, I appreciate it that much more.
I have two quick questions for you, sorry one request and one question, the request is can you please do a vlog on the many hard to pronounce names of some of the whisky and my question is when they say a spring cap what do they mean, I know what a screw cap is and a cork stopper, but I don't know what a spring cap is on a bottle
Thanks again Ralfy
Regards
Kevin
Pronunciation:
www.dcs.ed.ac.uk/home/jhb/whisky/pronounc.html
The above is accurate, but dry. The below one is much more enjoyable!
www.esquire.com/features/drinking/scotch-pronunciation-guide-5836909
@ 6:00 ++ min
I have to disagree, Ralfy. Usually a bad stomach or real food poisoning is caused by toxins produced by bacteria or molds that spoiled the food. Alcohol, unfortunalety, does not kill toxins. It is one itself.
Besides, the majority of bacteria taken up together with our food is killed in our stomach anyway due to its relatively high acidity. To kill bacteria savely with alcohol its strength needs to be around 70% Vol. Lower or higher conentrations just inhibit microbial growth. Here you go. Now you know. :P
Apart from that: Thank you for regular output of finest infotainment and congrats to your 500! =)
The first time I ever saw this was at a regular bar I frequent, Laphroaig gave them a bottle to sample, and my favourite barmaid gave me a glass gratis, I was instantly in love with this peaty beauty and have bought many bottles of this as well as Laphroaig quarter cask, this is probably my all time favourite spirit. ( Well, sometimes I'm just in the mood for a good bourbon as well ) :^)
Ralfy, You reviewed Laphroaig 10 yr 40% in WR272, one of your reviews covering the Scotch Whisky Regions. Back in WR272, you gave the Laphroaig 10 yr an 89 malt mark.
Ralfy,
I would like to contrast the big peaty personality of Lapghoaig with a big smokey/no peat single malt. Is there such as single malt(s)?
Thanks,
Curtis
Laphroaig 10 has been my go-to peated single malt for some years now, but I've enjoyed recent bottles of cask strength 10 even more. Perhaps a re-review of the cask strength is in order as well?
Great review as always, Ralfy! Regarding the malting and kilning of Islay whisky: it's not just Laphroaig and Kilchoman. They also do a proportion of it themselves at Bowmore, right?
Tried the Select at Whisky Live Boston where I was thrilled to meet John Campbell and Simon Brooking. So on the matter of the Select-- it reminds me of that old saying "If you can't say something nice... etc." Same thing with the Old Pulteney Clipper, another NAS. There are some good NAS, but initially be skeptical my friends, be skeptical. Even my favorite distilleries seem to be succumbing.
Today,China's middle class is estimated to be 300 million people. That is almost the entire USA population. It is estimated (conservatively) to grow to 700 to 800 million, which is 50% to 60% of China's entire population.
They have discovered Single Malt Scotch Whisky. They like it with green tea. That is just one developing country. Eastern Europe, Brazil, and SE Asia has an emerging middle class too.
The demand is forcing the rich corporations to be super greedy.
Loving these reviews - they're a brilliant education for us Single-Malt neophytes, thank you Ralfy!
I'd really like your opinion - & other folks' comments on the Smokehead Extra Rare. It was my 1st Single Malt purchase & I LOVED it! The Intensity of the Peat, iodine & seaweed blew me away!
I think I'm going to buy another bottle, but I'm considering the Laphroaig QC & Ardbeg 10.
Any advice on how best to start the journey into Single Malts?
I'm also considering buying a raft of miniatures as a low-cost way to become familiar with the different styles of scotch.
Comments & advice greatly appreciated!
Thank you you MALTY Munchkins!!!!
GKSireland I'd say go ahead and try the QC and Ardbeg 10. Never a bad thing to expand your horizons, you may find them far superior!
Fantastic review as always! And the instructive content never stops coming. Thanks a lot Ralfy, and I loved your #500 (which covered my personal favourite distillery that I've ever sampled: Ardbeg). It was actually quite an artistic, relaxing, and pleasant video. I could actually almost smell the aromas, and that kind of visceral experience is something I've usually only found from high-level comedians or storytellers.
I almost always have a bottle of Laphroaig 10yr in my house (the 43% version). The price-performance of this 10 year-old whisky is near the top of the chart. The only 10yr that I've had that I slightly prefer is Ardbeg's. I'm just a massive peat fan.
Would I be out of place to suggest people check out Laphroaig's distillery tour video? If this is seen as advertising or something, I sincerely apologise, and will remove this link right away:
Laphroaig Distillery Tour
I suggest it because it gives a very light, quick summary of the distilling process, starting with the water and the peat field. Again, I apologise if this is not permitted, but I found the video fascinating. Not as good as your Whisky Review 177, of course! But much shorter.
Speaking of which, I'd also recommend Ralfy's own Whisky Review 177, a 7-part video series at Springbank, for more in-depth information and instruction about this topic. It's a classic, and if you haven't seen it, it's a must-watch. It starts here:
whisky review 177 1/7 - Springbank Distillery with Peter (part 1)
This was reviewed already in the regions series. Very similar notes and mark, incidentally, which shows honesty and consistency.
Ralfy I absolutely love your videos and find them inspiring... I recently picked up a bottle of the new Jura turas mara and found it very complex and rich... Do you think it's worth a review???
I liked the Laphroaig 10 Year, I took it on our 8-day Disney cruise. It was nice sitting by the pool, sipping good Whisky!
But, I think I prefer Ardbeg for the Islay's. Wife bought a bottle of Uigeadail for our 8th Anniversary. It was delicious!!!
I love the peat and it smells differently in each distillery has it's own signature for it. I find it impossible to pick favourites caol ila is a bonefire... ardbeg is like a damp marine cellar, Laphroaig is like seaweed but burnt. It's all fantastic a bit of a nature's cheat is that dopamine that relates to it... it really kicks you to heaven. Do we love it because of that? or because they are fantastic young spirits none the less.
Ralfy more about peat chemical magic, please ;-D
Used to drink this in college - but I was truly not experiencing it correctly in those days.
Thanks for the review Ralfy, interesting thoughts on the whiskey aging. Btw - what is the three legged symbol in the background? I have noticed it moves around in different reviews.
Cheers!
Superb review, even better than the first time you reviewed the 10 yo. ;) I really had to pour myself a dram of the QC to watch this one. Maybe it would have been worth to mention the QC as an alternative to the 10 yo instead of the Select. I know that you have reviewed it previously and highlighted it's qualities, but it is always worth mentioning that there are some NAS whiskys out there (increasingly low numbers unfortunately) that are worth checking out. Having said that, the QC is in the UK priced very similar to the 10 yo so maybe nobody would select that instead of the "select". (Apologies for the very poor play on words joke).
btw NAS: My favorite Laphroaig expression so far is the NAS Lp5. Really superb stuff.
I used to like the Quarter Cask, and strongly support your post that Laphroaig kept the price of the QC way way below what their competitors do with their NAS releases.
B Basidium Haven't tried the Quarter Cask in the new style packaging. I loved the old one though and agree that if 10 is not available or even if it is, the QC is a great well balanced peat dram. But please, don't waste you money on the QA. It's terrible and frankly, if I were Laphroaig I'd be embarrassed by it. It's that bad. The 18 YO is much sweeter, toffee and the peat is in the background. However the king of Laphroaig is definitely the 10 YO Cask Strength. It is a pure delight!
Ralfy - I went to visit the Dutch International Whisky Festival yesterday in The Hague. I came across single grain whiskies that I am very new to. I tried the Clan Denny Single Cask (Carsebridge Distillery), 1981 - 30 year old. I was very positively surprised. They are not that common in the shops... any chance that you'll be reviewing more single grains any time soon?
enjoying a dram as I watch this. bunnahabhain 12 and bruichladdich classic were my introduction, and I was not sure if I was up for the more peaty single malts; but I do say I like this very much. look forward to learning more from your channel. cheers
Hi Ralfy,
Do you know whether Berry Brothers have kept some of that Ledaig 4yo to age and will be releasing an older version of it in the future? Bought a Ledaig after I saw your review of that 4yo a few years ago and really enjoyed it. Your vlogs have been great learning resources for me.
Thanks.
. . . probably all gone now !
Ralfy moment here :)
You did review it some two or three years ago :)
Ralfy, great video! What do you think of Macallan 21 triple cask??
Hi Ralfy,
I see where you're coming from with Laphroig Select nevertheless I would have liked to hear your opinion about that Whisky (thinking about buying it anyway...).
Anyway, is there a chance for a series on Non Age Statement Whiskys? I think there are some out there, that seem to be quite decent: Tomatin Legacy (tried it, liked it), Auchentoshan American Oak, Laphroaig Triple Wood, Bushmills 1608 Anniversary (tried it, liked it), Ardmore Legacy.
Btw: recently tried Teachers Highland Cream because of your review. Suprising how good a Whisky, that is even cheaper than J.W. red, can be (I think I bought it for about 10€, maybe less... was a special offer).
Looking forward to you're next reviews
No better time for a rash a Ralfy re-reviews than this side of 500 maltmate.
You got paleeeeenty of easy access off the shelf brands that haven't been looked at in years. Literally!
Is Jonnie Walker Black still top dog in the blend world? What about Ardbeg 10...still value packed? Is the Quarter Cask still a viable malt.
Its hard to ignore the old standbys when prices have skyrocketed since last reviewed!
cheers Ralfy
I've watched many of your reviews and I was really interested to hear your thoughts on Laphroaig 10yo because it's one of the most accessible peaty whiskeys available here in the states. It also happens to be one of my favorite Scotches. I do appreciate your thoughts on all the whiskeys you review, and I am in awe of the perceptiveness of your palate. However, I feel you're discrediting a non-age statement whiskey without giving it a try. If you're adamant about not purchasing it for review, nothing I have to say will change your mind, but I feel a good reviewer should experience the entire range of whiskeys when available, preconceived notions notwithstanding, and give an honest impression no matter what is presented. Whichever you decide, you can be assured I will be watching. Cheers.
It's been awhile since Whisky review 500. I am guessing the reason is, you have been to the, Glasgow whisky festival. Anyway thanks for the, Laphroaig review, I used to like Islay Malts but I now find I can't drink them anymore, the next review you are doing, sounds right up my street.
John please see my post on no longer enjoying the smokie malts. I wonder what happened to myself? I used to love them.
How do you feel about this vs. the Quarter Cask? Personally I think I like the Quarter Cask even more.
Hi Ralfy, big fan of your reviews. Quick question, which whiskies, in both blended and single categories, scored the the highest among your reviews?
How do you think the 10YO fares VS the Quarter Cask ? I wanted to try Laphroaig and was split between the two. I figured I'd go with QC for the higher ABV and even its got no age mention, it can't be that far from 10YO. I found the 10YO a bit too pricey for a 40% ABV whisky.
Ralfy, disregard the previous question, you covered the answer to it. I do have to wonder I hear very little about Bowmore. Is that not peated? Is it well respected?
Mike Maryland, USA
Interesting video as always ralfy! Have you ever given a 95/100 malt mark? What is the best whisky you have ever experienced? I'm not saying that your recommendation will give me any hopes of anything spectacular, it would just be interesting to know.
Thanks as always for the informative video!
The Police Box omg! :))
Anyway i think is the peat that I like in this whisky!!
Hi, Ralphie! I bought Laphroaig 10, Talisker 10, Ardbeg 10, Highland Park 12. More did not open :) What whisky will approach as a winter version? drink cold evenings
all 3 whisky Isla volume of 1 L. Do not leave the aroma from the bottle, if you drink a long time?
After watching almost all your videos I've decided to get a Glenfiddich 15 Y.O. and start to explore and try to find flavors.
As always, a terrific review and useful information to make our whisky enjoyment better. I've been trying peated whisky since your reviews from the peat bog Ralfy, and they have grown on me. I'll pick up a bottle the next time I'm in the shop. How much does the experience change when you go from 40% to 43%? Stay well, Ossie
So predictable.
i would love a 46% uncolored, unchilled filter laphroaig !
And what you think about Edradour 10. For me ,lovely malt , but 40% not enought for him，i think cask strenght was good.
Ralfy, what are you using "fusil" (not sure that's the correct spelling) to describe. I understand the general intent, but sometimes my american accent pronounces words differently. The definition I found was " An Elongated Lozenge". Love the review Laphroaig is one of my favorites.
I actually just got a bottle of this, at the 43%, for an early birthday present to myself. I found it absolutely fascinating.. This is my first real departure from bourbon as far as whisky is concerned.. I haven't tried adding water yet, but I think I will the next time I have a little of this....I was also wondering, do I need to keep it in the tube to keep the light off or would it be ok to just put the bottle on the shelf?
whisky is not that sensitive but keep it away from direct sunlight. also i have found out that those cardboard tubes are very good at keeping the temperature of the bottle. naked bottles will be exposed to changes in temperature easier. for example if you switch your radiator on/off all the time. condensation is the Whisky's worst enemy.
Thanks for the response, much appreciated
No colour in the Cairdeas.. Hope that comes to the other versions also...
My first peated whisky. I didn't like it too much because I was a new malt mate at the time. Perhaps time for a re-review myself?
You reviewed this a while back :)
How would you rank Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Lagavulin and Talisker in terms of peatiness? which is the most peated? I've never had a peated whiskey, so I'm wondering which one I should go for first?
this is not the first time I have been wondering about a specific bottle or distillery only to find Ralfy mentions it the next day. in this case Laphroaig select, I had my doubts and once again Mr Mitchell saves my cash. In between new vlogs I am trying to mop up the odd ones I haven't yet watched.
Ralfy have you had a chance to try the 2014 ardbeg supernova? What are your thoughts on it? Do you think it should or should not be compared to the 2009/2010 version's? I've read very positive reviews and very poor reviews... Seeing that it is kinda expensive would really like to hear what you think about it... Thanks
I looked forward to the annual NAS release from Ardbeg with baited breath. Every year I read up on it, and ran to the liquor store as soon as they arrived. After five years - no more.
It's like Bill Gates releasing new Microsoft versions every year. None are unique. None are revolutionary. And not one has an age statement. A quick buck.
B Basidium Ardbeg XP. So much better than anything before it. Full of faults, slight sour notes but overall, well balanced. Packed with promising flavours. Could only get better with maturity (or so we thought).
Ardbeg Vista, heavy Chilled Filtering. Too much effort to please those who are insecure about their whiskies and as a result, lacking consistancy and balance. Skip this one. It should have been called "A work in Progress".
Ardbeg Cask Strength 7. Got it just right. Beautifiully balanced, dependable and consistent experience straight out the bottle and continues even after oxidisation. Totally reliable, delicious middle and finish lasts and lasts. Packed with flavour. Suitable for all occasions but prefers a large heavy glass to get the most from it. Unfortuneately, they have discontinued this but If you see one on the shelf, grab it, it's better than the current version despite the marketing hype.
Ardbeg No Age Statement 8 and the update - Octomore 8.1. The marketing would have you believe that this is a dram for all occasions and glasses yet fails to deliver on any level. It's imature and overall flavour is flat and bearly drinkable. If you prefer your whisky experience with a heavy Gencairn glass then forget it. Stick to the Cask Strength discontinued 7. In truth the 8 tastes more like a confused Blend rather than a Single Malt and that's why it's been a marketing disaster.
All is not lost though. Just around the corner there is Ardbeg SuperNova 10 bottled at 61.3%, unchilled filtered but there are rumours that it's still contains some E150a colouring. A hugh improvement and a return to the quality of Ardbeg 7. Based on early sample releases, this is a dram worth waiting for and savouring. Let's just hope that before this release comes out on the general market, GlenGoogle Ex-Android Virgin Cask has not completely flooded the market.
I was concerned for a second when I didnt see a bottle at first!
The combination of scotch and bourbon ? What brand has that!
taistes like a freshly opened packet of plasters with a hint of a hospital ward
I like it
Ralfy,
My bottle sitting here in the US version is 43% is that normal one for one region and one for another region?
Mooseydog Yep, certain distillers know from market research that American customers prefer higher ABVs. Thus Balvenie, Macallan, and Laphroaig (to name a few) send us the 43% versions.
shuboy05 I can add Glengoyne to that list.
Ralfy, do you give a whisky the same rating on whisky-monitor that you give it as a malt mark on ralfystuff? In other words, do you hold a higher standard when rating as a "Malt Maniac" vs your own vlog reviews?
Also, love your videos... they're a great help. you've got a big fan here in Chicago!
Highwest campfire is pretty nice. Speaking of hybrids!
Hi Ralfy, in duty free in Israel i found New version of Lafroaig 15, and i can,t believe it is Farved mitt caramel, why they do that ? I dont understand.and the price was 109 dollars , not cheap.
in the whisky review 272 is the Laphroaig 10, interestingly 2 years ago this one got 89 points
If possible, can you speak in your next review about keeping peated bottles for a few years and how that may impact the whisky?
you don't keep whisky open for few years... when it wasn't you can store it untill it crumbles to dust rly. Opened it will diminish. I'd say if it's half bottle don't keep it longer than 3-6 months.
I actually meant closed bottles that I want to keep for 16-20 years. Wondering if the peat would change or mellow down.
Changes in a closed bottle of strong distilled alcohol are very very subtle. In theory it would diminish as that's what oxidization does to peat. But you really won't have reference point nor will it be noticeable. One thing you can do is using some industrial high quality vaccum seal that will be certified to last that long. It's what they do in industry. I don't think it will be woth the cost for you and it won't be original sealing thus bottle will be worthless.
Way to dive into the next 500 with 29:22 vlog. longest video to date.
That's the spirit Ralfy. Carry on the conversion!
Ralfy all you need now is a bottle of Innus & Gunn on the top shelf!!
What water are you using Ralfy please?thanks
A great way to describe Peat to some one who has not tasted it is: it taste like what an active barn or horse stable smells like (in a good way)! Wet, decaying straw and hay with a touch of farm manure, particularly horse shit. Believe it or not I am a big fan of peat and this particular Laphroaig.
Does peat = phenolic = iodine?