Laphroaig 'DT Single Cask' 2011 / 12 years old 54.4%

Nose: A bold and unmistakable Laphroaig profile, bursting with medicinal peat smoke, iodine, and seaweed. Notes of smouldering bonfire embers, damp earth, and maritime brine mingle with hints of charred oak, lemon zest, and salted caramel. A touch of vanilla sweetness softens the intensity, while underlying herbal notes add complexity.

Palate: Intense and mouth-coating, delivering waves of ashy smoke, TCP, and salty sea spray. The high ABV provides a powerful backbone, balanced by rich toffee, smoked bacon, and black pepper spice. Hints of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a subtle citrus brightness emerge, adding depth to the robust peat character.

Finish: Long and lingering, with warm peat embers, earthy spice, and a touch of oak tannin. The maritime salinity persists, alongside notes of liquorice, espresso, and a final whisper of honeyed malt.

Overall: A classic cask-strength Laphroaig with all the smoky, medicinal, and maritime intensity you’d expect, yet with a refined balance of sweetness and spice. A few drops of water soften the edges, revealing more of its citrus and vanilla undertones. A must-try for lovers of heavily peated Islay whisky.