My whishky journey started with Laphroaig 10. Since then I have hardly cared about other Scotches, Bourbon or Irish whiskeys. Love the peaty smoke of this single malt!! Just drip, stir, sip, savor and let the island of Islay show in your lowball glass.....Slàinte mhath folks!!
Laphroaig 10 is still one of my favorites, but has no doubt become less smokey and more sweet in the last 6-7 years. Still good and an amazing bargain for the price, but not as extreme as it once was...
This was one of my first Islay about 7 years ago and recalled the same. I've been ordering this at the pub and still a great dram and the bar has it for a good price. I just assumed it was my palate changing.
@@Csibu89Yeah, I can get that. But I don’t prefer 40% and chill filtering .. It’s a shame, and now Ardbeg 10, bottled at 46% and non-chill filtered, is the much better dram.
I could never decide which I preferred between Laphroaig 10 and Ardbeg 10. I recently bought another Laphroaig 10 and noticed a definite change, something I can only describe as a “thinness” that wasn’t present previously. It’s still a lovely whisky, but the Ardbeg 10 now wins hands down.
Hello my friend. I am familiar with the Laphroaig “thinness” you mention, I know EXACTLY what you mean. However, Ardbeg do deliver a consistent dram and certainly have done in my 50 odd years of enjoying it. Good health old chap 🥃
I'll spare you a visit, here are the next malt marks for the European Laphroaig 40% chillfiltered and using colouring. 2021: 82 Monkey Shoulder is now better, even with Coke 2025: 79 Laphroaig 10 is a blended malt from refill romanian hogsheads and italian olive oil. 2029: 66 Laphroaig is no longer 10 y.o, it has become a NAS entitled "islay soup". 2032: 55 Laphroaig islay soup is now only available in Honk Kong in 50cl bottles for 120$.
I was first introduced to Laphroaig by my Dad almost 50 years ago and it’s been one of my favorites over the years that I’ve purchased many times. I’ve always taken it neat. Of course my palette has matured & its not possible for me to do an A/B comparison between new & old, but it’s safe to say the long ago bottle was an order of magnitude more peaty and smoky, with the iodine component very much more to the fore. It was definitely an acquired taste and not for everyone. Very medicinal. I think Laphroaig was one of the few whiskeys imported and sold during Prohibition in the US because it was believed to have medicinal benefits! I agree with your take on the current version and the evolution over the years. I just happened to open a new bottle of our 86 proof the other day. It’s definitely more accessible, still very tasty, and has echos of the older bottling, but is tame by comparison. I prefer the cask strength 10 year old, but unfortunately it’s vey expensive.
after all of these years i've been following ralfy, one of the things i really appreciate the re-reviews it brings nostalgia of older views i remember seeing!
Like other people here are saying in the comments, across the pond here in Canada and the United States we get it bottled at 43%, makes a difference, yes there may be better Islay malts, Ardbeg, QC, cask strength, but the 10 will always have a place in my bar. Cheers Ralfy!🍻Thank you for the re-review
It's not just the taming down of the medicinal notes the tarry notes etc. for me it's the loss of the - eyes shut through the nose exhalation - note, a hint of rotten head of the sea loch at low tide, stinky kelp etc. The ability to transport yourself to the west highland foreshore from anywhere in the world with a single dram. Sure it's still a decent dram and I won't be putting it down, it's just that I won't be picking it up. Which for me is like the loss of a relative, sorely missed.
@@ChonkyTonks No, not that specific experience. But hey, I've moved on and I'll get over it. My spies on Islay tell me things are changing at the distillery so possibly something to look forward to in future, fingers crossed.
Great review, as always! When I was first introduced to Laphroaig 10 yo in 1989, it was love at first sip, and it started my single malt journey. Yes, the change has been obvious, as has been with so many other single malts like Talisker and Lagavulin. I’ve moved on to the Laphroaig 10 yo cask strength and others, like Ardbeg Ugeadail, Lagavulin 8 yo, Longrow, and Port Charlotte 10 yo Heavily Peated, etc. all at higher strength, to satisfy my peat cravings. I can’t completely turn my back on my old sentimental favorite though, as I always keep a bottle in the cabinet. The 10 yo is much more readily available in bars and restaurants in my hometown now than ever before and I very much enjoy introducing it to my friends, mostly for their reactions...almost as a test. When they react as I did 30 years ago and their eyes light up, I gladly provide suggestions for their journeys.
Great review Ralfy. I just purchased a bottle a few days ago. I totally agree with you that Laphroaig has tamed down a bit from the first time I tried it about 9 years ago. Too bad.😔🤙
I have to agree that it has changed. I haven't had Laphroaig 10 in quite some time. When I tried this recent bottle I noticed it tasted more tame, and I was noticing the medicinal notes more and the smoke less. When I drink Laphroaig or Ardbeg, I am most certainly not looking for "tame", thank you! I thought it was just my own perceptions and experience reflected in my tasting, but you confirmed for me that the stuff in the bottle has changed. Thank you for that!
@@bigbud6842 those are generally *the most commonly* associated smells with laphroaig- iodine and band aids. there's nothing particularly weird about it, that's just the flavor profile... have you ever actually tried it?
The 10 CS is indeed quite special, very hard to find though and available on their own website only occassionally throughout the year. As a supermarket single malt I will add while I’ve seen Lagavulin and Ardbeg steadily go up in price over the years Laphroaig 10 has been steady. And that is worth commending and why I picked up another bottle today
admire your depth of knowledge - I can’t afford proper whiskey - while living in Japan enjoyed Shochu - which is strong and taken in moderation, healthy - not much sugar etc - lime, Yozu, lemon, hot or cold - great
I'll be sipping Laphroaig 10 as I watch this review. I love being able to do that. However, as I'm in America, I have the 43% ABV bottling. This is the whiskey that started my love of peat, and it's my favorite peated daily drinker. Currently putting aside some cash and hunting for a bottle of Octomore. Love your videos, Ralfy, and I'm looking forward to seeing you do another series on bourbon. In the words of the Japanese; Kanpai!
I was in love with Laphroaig 10 when I first tried it in 2014. Since then, it's been hard to tell if it's just my palette's familiarity with it, or it's just not as good anymore, or both. Even the 10 year cask strength just doesn't live up to my first experience with Laphroaig. The Quarter Cask came close, I think, and I'd definitely like to try the Lore.
yeah laphroaig be simping for the us market as if most people didn't drink it on the rocks anyway doesn't really matter though once you realize the cask strength bottling is on another level and much more fun
You're so right Ralfy, the 10Y suffers badly bottled at 40%. It's too thin and weedy to counterpoint the peatyness. Personally I much prefer the Quarter Cask as my Laphroaig expression
All the liquor stores in my area are still selling Laphroaig at 44.4% and there is nothing flat about it or any other Laphroaig bottling I've ever tried i think you have a broken tongue and brain
@@bradl2636 Get the triple wood. That extra sweetness from the Sherry cask makes it a sightly more complex dram. Worth the extra few bucks/pounds. Let me know how it goes...
Thank you for confirming what I’ve felt over the last year or so. Laphroaig was my favourite single malt, the malt that made me love Islay malts, but it’s no longer that malt. The tar has definitely retreated as has that maritime whip of the sea. I’d love to try the alternate version you describe at the end.
Holy crap, thank you Ralfy!! - I really thought I'm going mad! I am (was) a Laphroaig 10yo fan for ages, but in recent years, saw myself trying various other Laphroaig products, just because the 10 yo became boring to me, unfortunately no variant came near to my memories I had of my earliest bottles of Laphroaig. And thanks to your explanation I can be (somewhat) certain, that I'm not (yet) ready for the loony bin, but Laphroaig just changed their way of production.
Good to get re-reviews of baseline Scotches Ralfy. From your re-views of both Ardbeg 10 and Laphroaig 10 it seems that in your opinion Ardbeg has been more consistent and truer to itself than Laphroaig over the years?
The last bottle of whiskey I bought was Laphroaig Quarter Cask. I loved it. Not quite as good as the Ardbeg Uigeadail I bought before that but sweeter and lighter if less peaty and smoky. I still have some of both left.
Great review as usual love the quarter cask have not had the 10 for a while, will get on my shelf. I picked up the Glenallachie Ralfy 10 year anniversary bottle at the weekend which is my most favourite bottle thanks for the last 10 years mate looking forward to the next 10.
Got my first Islay about a month ago. Laphroaig select. It took about 6 months of back and forth in my head about peat because I was a little scared to dive into the peat but I loved it.
Hot damn this whisky is fantastic! I was not expecting to like it this much right away. Very interesting combination of smoke, iodine, medicine, mud, flowers, nuts, honey, sea... punchy but goes down ridiculously easy at 43% (got lucky, they got the best one to Brazil for once), leaves your tongue numb afterwards. 5 stars for me. I've been a Speyside guy, but Laphoraig, you got me... I didn't love my Talisker 10, wasn't sure if peat was for me. This laphoraig changes things, now I'm interested. Quarter Cask is next no question.
Just got round to this because I found it in my travels. Had to come back to this review to see if my experience jibed with yours ralfy. Yep, it does. I like it but it's an 84 for sure. So far the only one of my experiments that have been wholly satisfying is Glen Scotia Double Cask. A NAS offering that is very pleasant to drink and intriguing. One of these days I'll make it into the big city and find some Arran or Victoriana or maybe even Bunnahabhain.
Thanks Ralfy for re-reviewing this as I just bought a bottle and was wondering if it has changed since last you reviewed it. Here in South Africa, it is 43% ABV and trust me, it does make a difference. Ita a great scotch. I really do like it. Strong peat but complimented nicely with the other flavors.
Should note: as one ages, you lose more and more taste buds. So whiskey will also taste different over the years as a person ages. But still fascinating info. I love this whiskey as well
I completely agree with your assessment Ralfy. Although an occasional malt whisky drinker I've been a fan of Laphroaig 10 yo for many years. What would you recommend to someone who prefers the 'old' Laphroaig and at a regular price i.e. £30 - £40? Cheers Adam
hi Mr Ralfy my maltfriend, over here in Montreal its much restrictions on alcohol...let say that the market is much tighter than the Europa, but fortunately I can drink a bottle of Laphroig at 43% and since I am still a beginner I love this single malt ... however continues the excellent work Mr. ralfy see you at the next maltmoment.!Greets from Mtl.!
We’re just enjoying a bunahabhain 12 yr old at the moments ralfie. Not your typical Islay, in fact reminiscent of a speyside. Really nice though, really nice. Especially for £36.00 a bottle from Waitrose. A delectable dram .
In the U.S., Laphroaig 10 sells for under $50 and is bottled at 43%. Your review is on the mark...they've "homogenized" it. I prefer the Cask Strength 10, myself (which sells for under $70 here).
Thank you Ralfy for helping me understand good whisky. I recently found my favorite, which is Highland Park 12 Viking Honour. Thank you for your great reviews and marvelous information.
Thanks for an honest review and unspoken rip to look out for a different Laphroig experience outside the standard. And I‘m utterly curious about the upcoming extras now, waiting on the edge of my seat! ☺️
I'm trying this for the first time while watching. I mostly taste tobacco smoke at first. I'm not a smoker, but there is something very reassuring and warming about that taste. After a few drops of water, the nose gets a little lighter and sweeter but I still get that interesting tobacco finish. Thanks Ralfy, great review on a very available single malt I can find in most supermarket's in the U.S. at 43% just like you said. I'm glad I finally picked this up! Cheers!
It's pretty settled for me that I simply love Sherried whiskies. But now it's time to figure out if peat is for me. I have a Talisker 10 but it's too subtle. Time for a proper smoke bomb, waiting for my Laphroaig 10 to arrive
I only drank Laphroaig 10 for the first time this February and I can barely believe how different the bottle I bought this week is. It used to be a filthy beast with thick bonfire ash and smoked kipper notes and is now almost mannered with, as you identified, leaf mint aromas. It's not bad but it's not what I thought I was buying. :(
To me always preferred the 10 over the 15. I really enjoy the 2022 version, its a little toned down but delivers a great complex Isla flavour. £30 a bottle is more affordable and value for money than the Lagavulin 16 or 8 year olds or other duffers. Enjoyed the review, maybe things should not always stay the same. Extra Cold Guiness anyone??
That room just calls to me. I'd love to just sit, talk and sip some scotch with this man! I can almost smell this room and feel the slight chill in the air.
Thank you Ralfy. I think I’ll just stick to the Quarter Cask. I feel that every 40% I have, be it Jameson, Glenlivet or any other whisky, it feels a little thin and “watery”. I’m considering just to stop buying anything below 43 or preferably 46% going forward as it seems to hold the flavors much better.
With whisky manufacturing becoming more refined and calculated is it now better to drink half as much but buy bottles twice the price to once again experience the smaller batch more 'authentic' bottlings from years gone by?
Glen Garioch’s core range is at 48% and non-chill filtered. As Laphroaig is also owned by Beam Suntory, so why can’t Laphroaig 10 be 46% and non-chill filtered?!
I'd like to see your review of the Laphroaig 10 yr cask strength. Supposedly it's mostly unfiltered as well as being at a higher strength. The regular 10 year old is bottled at 43% in the US which is a little better, but I agree that it should be at 46% at least. The price has been reflecting the lower quality here, I think, with regular discounts at the local big box liquor store. These discounts often put the price at $10-$15 less than Ardbeg 10. I like them both, I think there are some interesting flavors in the Laphroiag not experienced in the Ardbeg, but it is frustrating that it could be a lot better with a few simple tweaks (higher strength, non-chill-filtered, no added coloring).
Go ahead and go to the channel whisky Vault those guys are much more qualified than this guy to talk about any kind of whiskey and they would agree that you're just being a fucking snob if you won't drink something non-chill filtered, you fucking snob.
Who gives a s*** if they add coloring it does not affect the flavor and they don't need to tweak it because obviously whoever is in charge of the flavor profile of Laphroaig decided that they liked it the way it is
this dram goes down so easily imo. I just have it neat, have had two bottles and enjoyed both immensely. I also enjoyed Old Pulteney 12 and the Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair. But for a lovely peaty salty experience I love this dram for the price. Currently on Bushmills 10 - loved your review of that whiskey too. Thank you for your work!
My other favorite standard peateds, Ardbeg 10 and Ledaid 10 are unchill filtered and bottled at 46%. I wish Laphroaig would follow suit with their standard 10 year bottling. I'll add that another favorite, Port Charlotte Heavily Peated 10 yr old is bottled at 50%! The price is a bit higher though.
I was a regular buyer of the standard 40% 10-yo in the UK. Gave it a break over a few years. Now I live in North America and recently bought a 10-yo @ 43% ABV and it is not as good as the older 40% version I remember. off balance. I think the Quarter Cask is now the better dram.
Do you think it's possible that the distilleries which produce peated whiskies, might be adding the phenols artificially, instead of using 100% peat to flavour the malt? Thank you! - the Texan with over 40% Scottish DNA.
I wish you had the 4 seperate bottles with which to compare... like you did with the Johnnie Walker Reds you compared? then again.. age in an open bottle makes a heck of a difference too!
Ok….at age 58 finally tried a laphroaig 10…..initial thoughts….”Who poured iodine into my burnt seaweed”????? Even on the nose the aroma of “Old Doctors Office” was hard to get through…. Now at 43% (in the USA), the ethanol was not overpowering and the peaty smoke finish was pleasant….once i got past the medicinal aftertaste…..
Would it be out of the question heresy to mix a bit of the Quarter Cask 48% with the 10YO 40% to push some kick in to it as well as toning down the harshness of the QC at the same time?
Just opened a new bottle of the 2019 10yr which I bought from Tesco's at £26. In my opinion the bottling a couple of years back was a lot richer in flavour. Still a lovely dram just not as full flavoured.
I remember when I first tasted a Laphroaigh in the 90th. It felt like I sat in the sunset of a small fishing harbour. The air was filled with smells from the salty water and seeweed, tarred hawsers and wooden boats. That's not there anymore.
This week was my first contact with Islay peat whiskeys. My first glass of Laphroaig 10 was overwhelming and somewhat disappointing. Two days later I tried Lagavulin 8 this time and was equally amazed and fascinated. I did not know that smoky aromas could marry so well with a sweetness that little by little it was coming out of its hiding place behind a smoke screen. Today I just gave Laphroaig 10 a second chance and this time I have managed to tune in to what this whiskey is capable of offering. It has taken me to Scorsese's movie "Shutter Island" over the cliff, into the cave with the fire, into the gloomy corridors of a drug-scented asylum. And suddenly, in two drinks it has turned into a placid beach gathering on a starry night with friends around a candle. And the anise, raisins and candied dark fruit have come out behind the same mysterious smokescreen from the beginning. What a trip, friends!
Laphroaig was the first whisky I could enjoy. I have tasted a few before that, not understanding why anyone would drink the stuff but Laphy hooked me good. It's still alot of hit n miss when tasting new stuff, there are many whiskies I will not touch again. Some suit me some don't -fascinating! The list of good and bad is growing long, will soon start to forget!!
@@canal-do-guga-namura That is probably better advice than I first gave mental credit to; I had written off Highland Park (12 yr probably, 2008) with a score as "barely drinkable", I gave away a full bottle (-2cl taster) without blinking or remorse to a contractor working on my property... ,(Also gave away a Glen Morangie std edition, 12yr?). Come to 2019 and Highland Park 12 "Viking Honor" is actually quite ok.... Now... Question becomes, are there really much difference betwixt 'em? I have not done any research so I don't know... all I know is I had Viking Honor and it was ok enough I'd happily buy a bottle should a good price come along.
If available in your locale, the annual 2019 Laphroaig Càirdeas Triple Wood cask strength is just excellent. Yes, it's non age statement; however, it does not taste like it whatsoever and it's very smoky with a tonne of character which frankly blows the regular Triple Wood clear out of the water with all cannons at full bore.
The ordinary 10 year, 43% Laphroaig readily available here in the States is one of my favorite sippers. I'm one of those odd folks who actually LIKE it, and have since first sip in '83. (I describe its immediate flavor as tincture of iodine that has been filtered through a peat bog.)
I'd pick pretty much any other bottle of peated whiskey with higher ABV over Laphroaig 10 at this price point. But yesterday I came across 35 bucks a bottle and that's a steal. It's still peated, still great taste.
still have a bottle of Cairdeas that I bought in 2015 and a bottle of Quarter Cask that I bought in 2016 in my basement. The Cairdeas I really should drink because there's still about half a bottle left and I don't want it losing its luster. The Quarter Cask fro 2016, however, is still sealed.
Great review, Ralfy. Really appreciate it - this was one of the first whiskies I ever tried in my teens. Might need to revisit it now, it's been a while. The point about the US strength was interesting - I didn't know that. Lived there for two years and imported bottles were prohibitively expensive, to the point that I'd wait until someone was coming over from Scotland to bring me a bottle in their luggage.
Also, it would be cool to see a superedit video where you stitch the various reviews together (for those of us too lazy to look up each individually 😉)
i finally got a bottle today and it is so good, now one of my favorites like maccallan. its nice a smoky nice nose. the taste is not strong, i taste the smoke, caramel, honey after tase to me and nice and smooth. it was $54 here and it is a great buy and add ti my collection.islay and highlands are my favorites.
In my neck of the woods, Laphroaig 10 is 70 CDN and Lagavulin 16 is $135 and 10 is as old as I can buy from Laphroiag in my province. Seems like I should just splash out on the Lag16. Already bought Port ChArlotte 10 so don’t even know if it’s worth it to have both! The 10 is 43% at least ... edit just realized there is no 12 Laphroaig so I guess that’s it!
It's hard to disagree since I live in the United States and get the privilege of 43%. Laphroaig 10 is still my favorite whiskey but agree 46% is where it should be.
Great review as always. How about a comparison of this and Ardbeg 10, side by side by you. That would be interesting. I know you mark A10 five points higher. But would Laph 10 come close if it was 46% non chill-filtered and without E150 in it?
An extraordinary dram with the thickest scotch mist ever is G&M’s Glen Grant 2008 cask strength. Not expensive (£45) but very hard to find. Even G&M have none left. Only known source Luvians, Cupar (Fife). Definitely a 90+ malt mark in the making. Next time your in Scotland give me a shout and I’ll give you a bottle from my fast depleting stock!
So was mine, very disappointed. Even a UK 5cl 40% bottle had a bit more meat to it. Probably batch variations but damn almost completely different whisky. Only the last quarter was any good. I gave away my quarter cask as I wasn't even enjoying it! Plenty of other malts more deserving e.g. Ardbeg 10, Bruicladdich port charlotte, longrow!
I didn't know that Laphroig 10 was chill filtered. It is 43% where I live but for some reason it is more expensive than the Ardbeg 10 I bought a while ago. I think I'll stick with my Ardbeg for now.
I'm not sure whether you still review comments on these older reviews, Ralfy, (forgive the familiarity, by the way!) but you say that the 43% alcohol brings out the flavours more than the 40%, You also, however, seem to suggest that adding a few drops of water releases the flavours of the 40% version but, surely, adding water further dilutes the alcohol to marginally below 40%. Could you explain how these two observations can be compatible? I'd also appreciate your recommendations as to other peaty single malts that might be a little less 'antiseptic' than the current Laphroaig 10 year-old, as I find the phenolic overtones somewhat overpowering in this particular whisky. Many thanks!
Did I get lucky and catch a bottling at 43%, or is that just how it's sold in the states? It's what I could find. I'm a new whisky fan but I loved this. There's actually complexity to be found and there is sweetness despite the intense flavors. I definitely get the iodine / rubber and love it. Now, which is better Ardbeg 10 or Laphroaig 10? A battle for the ages
Great work mate. Been following you from 2010. Would love it if you did a series of say top 5 or 10 single malts from each region in $ brackets. Cheers
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I appreciate the re-reviews over the years. Consistency is everything in whisky. Thanks Ralfy.
But unfortunately it doesn´t happen too frequently...
it will still probably taste like TCP lol
My whishky journey started with Laphroaig 10. Since then I have hardly cared about other Scotches, Bourbon or Irish whiskeys. Love the peaty smoke of this single malt!! Just drip, stir, sip, savor and let the island of Islay show in your lowball glass.....Slàinte mhath folks!!
Laphroaig 10 is still one of my favorites, but has no doubt become less smokey and more sweet in the last 6-7 years. Still good and an amazing bargain for the price, but not as extreme as it once was...
Yes, I agree, it was darker and tarrier 10 years ago!
I know it is personal preference, but i really prefer it having less char to it.
This was one of my first Islay about 7 years ago and recalled the same. I've been ordering this at the pub and still a great dram and the bar has it for a good price. I just assumed it was my palate changing.
@@Csibu89Yeah, I can get that. But I don’t prefer 40% and chill filtering .. It’s a shame, and now Ardbeg 10, bottled at 46% and non-chill filtered, is the much better dram.
I used to work in the Laphroaig bottling factory. 12 hours nightshift placing the tubes on a convayor belt, it wasn't the best job.
Thank you for your service😉
🫡🫡
I could never decide which I preferred between Laphroaig 10 and Ardbeg 10. I recently bought another Laphroaig 10 and noticed a definite change, something I can only describe as a “thinness” that wasn’t present previously. It’s still a lovely whisky, but the Ardbeg 10 now wins hands down.
Hello my friend.
I am familiar with the Laphroaig “thinness” you mention, I know EXACTLY what you mean.
However, Ardbeg do deliver a consistent dram and certainly have done in my 50 odd years of enjoying it.
Good health old chap 🥃
I'm already waiting for the 6th review of Laphroaig! See you guys in 2021.
I'll spare you a visit, here are the next malt marks for the European Laphroaig 40% chillfiltered and using colouring.
2021: 82
Monkey Shoulder is now better, even with Coke
2025: 79
Laphroaig 10 is a blended malt from refill romanian hogsheads and italian olive oil.
2029: 66
Laphroaig is no longer 10 y.o, it has become a NAS entitled "islay soup".
2032: 55
Laphroaig islay soup is now only available in Honk Kong in 50cl bottles for 120$.
by then it will just taste like the TCP and water Ralfy mentioned for his cut!
@@RomainRiviere hilarious! But you forgot electrolytes. It's what malt mates crave 😏
I was first introduced to Laphroaig by my Dad almost 50 years ago and it’s been one of my favorites over the years that I’ve purchased many times. I’ve always taken it neat. Of course my palette has matured & its not possible for me to do an A/B comparison between new & old, but it’s safe to say the long ago bottle was an order of magnitude more peaty and smoky, with the iodine component very much more to the fore. It was definitely an acquired taste and not for everyone.
Very medicinal. I think Laphroaig was one of the few whiskeys imported and sold during Prohibition in the US because it was believed to have medicinal benefits!
I agree with your take on the current version and the evolution over the years. I just happened to open a new bottle of our 86 proof the other day. It’s definitely more accessible, still very tasty, and has echos of the older bottling, but is tame by comparison.
I prefer the cask strength 10 year old, but unfortunately it’s vey expensive.
Cask strength Laphroaig 10 is my all time favorite malt!
Ralfy should try that one
@@perkristiansandgren4132 agreed w U.
Yes, the cask strength 10 year is always excellent. In fact the 2019 edition is exceptionally exceptional, most likely malt of the year for me.
Total wine has it on sale for 30. Cask strength 58 percent. Just got one.
@Maester Gryphon sometimes.
after all of these years i've been following ralfy, one of the things i really appreciate the re-reviews it brings nostalgia of older views i remember seeing!
Like other people here are saying in the comments, across the pond here in Canada and the United States we get it bottled at 43%, makes a difference, yes there may be better Islay malts, Ardbeg, QC, cask strength, but the 10 will always have a place in my bar. Cheers Ralfy!🍻Thank you for the re-review
Maybe it's just my state but I'm in the US and I'm still getting it at 44.4% for the 10-year
Laphroaig 10 is my favorite - it reminds me of kelp on the beach after a big sea and burning peat after a bushfire. Magic.
It's not just the taming down of the medicinal notes the tarry notes etc. for me it's the loss of the - eyes shut through the nose exhalation - note, a hint of rotten head of the sea loch at low tide, stinky kelp etc. The ability to transport yourself to the west highland foreshore from anywhere in the world with a single dram. Sure it's still a decent dram and I won't be putting it down, it's just that I won't be picking it up. Which for me is like the loss of a relative, sorely missed.
Uilleachan Man, you are eloquent!
who are you man? A poet? Well done
Uilleachan Are there any current single malts that give you that taste/experience?
@@ChonkyTonks No, not that specific experience. But hey, I've moved on and I'll get over it. My spies on Islay tell me things are changing at the distillery so possibly something to look forward to in future, fingers crossed.
Great review, as always!
When I was first introduced to Laphroaig 10 yo in 1989, it was love at first sip, and it started my single malt journey. Yes, the change has been obvious, as has been with so many other single malts like Talisker and Lagavulin. I’ve moved on to the Laphroaig 10 yo cask strength and others, like Ardbeg Ugeadail, Lagavulin 8 yo, Longrow, and Port Charlotte 10 yo Heavily Peated, etc. all at higher strength, to satisfy my peat cravings.
I can’t completely turn my back on my old sentimental favorite though, as I always keep a bottle in the cabinet. The 10 yo is much more readily available in bars and restaurants in my hometown now than ever before and I very much enjoy introducing it to my friends, mostly for their reactions...almost as a test. When they react as I did 30 years ago and their eyes light up, I gladly provide suggestions for their journeys.
Great review Ralfy. I just purchased a bottle a few days ago. I totally agree with you that Laphroaig has tamed down a bit from the first time I tried it about 9 years ago. Too bad.😔🤙
. . . . just the way it goes !
I would add that it's even different from a year ago or so
Best Laphroaig I've had was a 6yo from the Good Spirits Co in Glasgow. One of the best peated whiskies I've ever had
I have to agree that it has changed. I haven't had Laphroaig 10 in quite some time. When I tried this recent bottle I noticed it tasted more tame, and I was noticing the medicinal notes more and the smoke less. When I drink Laphroaig or Ardbeg, I am most certainly not looking for "tame", thank you! I thought it was just my own perceptions and experience reflected in my tasting, but you confirmed for me that the stuff in the bottle has changed. Thank you for that!
To me, it tastes like iodine and bandaids and it smells like a hospital ward. Lol. Love this stuff.
Thats fucking sick in the most disgusting way. Go seek help
@@bigbud6842 those are generally *the most commonly* associated smells with laphroaig- iodine and band aids. there's nothing particularly weird about it, that's just the flavor profile... have you ever actually tried it?
Sucking a burnt out fishing boat full of seaweed. Yuk!
Big Bud Yeah? You tastes it? It’s unbelievably awful.
Spot on! Love it ;)
The 10 CS is indeed quite special, very hard to find though and available on their own website only occassionally throughout the year. As a supermarket single malt I will add while I’ve seen Lagavulin and Ardbeg steadily go up in price over the years Laphroaig 10 has been steady. And that is worth commending and why I picked up another bottle today
admire your depth of knowledge - I can’t afford proper whiskey - while living in Japan enjoyed Shochu - which is strong and taken in moderation, healthy - not much sugar etc - lime, Yozu, lemon, hot or cold - great
Hello Ralfy,
nice Review Old School i love tht format and style THX a lot for al that Years😍🤩
I'll be sipping Laphroaig 10 as I watch this review. I love being able to do that. However, as I'm in America, I have the 43% ABV bottling. This is the whiskey that started my love of peat, and it's my favorite peated daily drinker. Currently putting aside some cash and hunting for a bottle of Octomore. Love your videos, Ralfy, and I'm looking forward to seeing you do another series on bourbon. In the words of the Japanese; Kanpai!
I was in love with Laphroaig 10 when I first tried it in 2014. Since then, it's been hard to tell if it's just my palette's familiarity with it, or it's just not as good anymore, or both. Even the 10 year cask strength just doesn't live up to my first experience with Laphroaig. The Quarter Cask came close, I think, and I'd definitely like to try the Lore.
"and i'm proud ta be an american.." because Laphroaig comes in at 43%alcohol.
'Murica! 🇺🇸
yeah laphroaig be simping for the us market as if most people didn't drink it on the rocks anyway
doesn't really matter though once you realize the cask strength bottling is on another level and much more fun
Definitly getting the tcp!
You're so right Ralfy, the 10Y suffers badly bottled at 40%. It's too thin and weedy to counterpoint the peatyness. Personally I much prefer the Quarter Cask as my Laphroaig expression
All the liquor stores in my area are still selling Laphroaig at 44.4% and there is nothing flat about it or any other Laphroaig bottling I've ever tried i think you have a broken tongue and brain
Quarter Cask vs Triple Wood...? Your thoughts?
@@bradl2636 Get the triple wood. That extra sweetness from the Sherry cask makes it a sightly more complex dram. Worth the extra few bucks/pounds. Let me know how it goes...
Thank you for confirming what I’ve felt over the last year or so. Laphroaig was my favourite single malt, the malt that made me love Islay malts, but it’s no longer that malt. The tar has definitely retreated as has that maritime whip of the sea. I’d love to try the alternate version you describe at the end.
. . . try Port Charlotte instead !
@@thewhiskybothy Oooh I’ve not had that for ages. Thanks for the reminder. Ardbeg has replaced Laphroaig as my go to easy to find Islay.
Tar! That's it! That is what I'm tasting. We call it creosote and paint power poles with it to keep them from rotting. 😆
Thanks Ralfy for repeating this basic rule. 40% is an heresy.
Lol sounds like somebodies just mad that they are broke and cant afford scotch regularly so you pretend to be a snob!
I dont get it.
Fantastic use of 'an' before 'heresy'.
Big Bud so someone is broke for saying watered down whiskey isn’t good? Sounds like projection to me
@@bigbud6842 more like Little Bud
Holy crap, thank you Ralfy!! - I really thought I'm going mad! I am (was) a Laphroaig 10yo fan for ages, but in recent years, saw myself trying various other Laphroaig products, just because the 10 yo became boring to me, unfortunately no variant came near to my memories I had of my earliest bottles of Laphroaig. And thanks to your explanation I can be (somewhat) certain, that I'm not (yet) ready for the loony bin, but Laphroaig just changed their way of production.
Good to get re-reviews of baseline Scotches Ralfy. From your re-views of both Ardbeg 10 and Laphroaig 10 it seems that in your opinion Ardbeg has been more consistent and truer to itself than Laphroaig over the years?
The last bottle of whiskey I bought was Laphroaig Quarter Cask. I loved it. Not quite as good as the Ardbeg Uigeadail I bought before that but sweeter and lighter if less peaty and smoky. I still have some of both left.
Great review as usual love the quarter cask have not had the 10 for a while, will get on my shelf. I picked up the Glenallachie Ralfy 10 year anniversary bottle at the weekend which is my most favourite bottle thanks for the last 10 years mate looking forward to the next 10.
Got my first Islay about a month ago. Laphroaig select. It took about 6 months of back and forth in my head about peat because I was a little scared to dive into the peat but I loved it.
. . . always a first time !
@@thewhiskybothy yes sir. I can't wait to explore more of what Islay has to offer.
Hot damn this whisky is fantastic! I was not expecting to like it this much right away. Very interesting combination of smoke, iodine, medicine, mud, flowers, nuts, honey, sea... punchy but goes down ridiculously easy at 43% (got lucky, they got the best one to Brazil for once), leaves your tongue numb afterwards. 5 stars for me.
I've been a Speyside guy, but Laphoraig, you got me... I didn't love my Talisker 10, wasn't sure if peat was for me. This laphoraig changes things, now I'm interested. Quarter Cask is next no question.
Just got round to this because I found it in my travels. Had to come back to this review to see if my experience jibed with yours ralfy. Yep, it does. I like it but it's an 84 for sure. So far the only one of my experiments that have been wholly satisfying is Glen Scotia Double Cask. A NAS offering that is very pleasant to drink and intriguing. One of these days I'll make it into the big city and find some Arran or Victoriana or maybe even Bunnahabhain.
Thanks Ralfy for re-reviewing this as I just bought a bottle and was wondering if it has changed since last you reviewed it. Here in South Africa, it is 43% ABV and trust me, it does make a difference. Ita a great scotch. I really do like it. Strong peat but complimented nicely with the other flavors.
Should note: as one ages, you lose more and more taste buds. So whiskey will also taste different over the years as a person ages.
But still fascinating info. I love this whiskey as well
I completely agree with your assessment Ralfy. Although an occasional malt whisky drinker I've been a fan of Laphroaig 10 yo for many years. What would you recommend to someone who prefers the 'old' Laphroaig and at a regular price i.e. £30 - £40? Cheers Adam
Hello Ralfy..
As you mentioned that 'Small Indipendent Distilary'.. so which are the distillaries are Indipendent in Scotland & not a corporate brand?
hi Mr Ralfy my maltfriend, over here in Montreal its much restrictions on alcohol...let say that the market is much tighter than the Europa, but fortunately I can drink a bottle of Laphroig at 43% and since I am still a beginner I love this single malt ... however continues the excellent work Mr. ralfy see you at the next maltmoment.!Greets from Mtl.!
Thank you for all the nice whisky reviews
We’re just enjoying a bunahabhain 12 yr old at the moments ralfie. Not your typical Islay, in fact reminiscent of a speyside. Really nice though, really nice. Especially for £36.00 a bottle from Waitrose. A delectable dram
.
Huge fan of Quarter Cask! I had a bottle of 10 year and sold it to a mate in work today. It had sat there long enough.
In the U.S., Laphroaig 10 sells for under $50 and is bottled at 43%. Your review is on the mark...they've "homogenized" it. I prefer the Cask Strength 10, myself (which sells for under $70 here).
Same goes for Highland Park 12 and Macallan 12. Yanks get the stuff bottled at 43% , but only 40% over here in Europe , that's not fair.
Thank you Ralfy for helping me understand good whisky. I recently found my favorite, which is Highland Park 12 Viking Honour. Thank you for your great reviews and marvelous information.
Thanks for an honest review and unspoken rip to look out for a different Laphroig experience outside the standard. And I‘m utterly curious about the upcoming extras now, waiting on the edge of my seat! ☺️
I preferred Laphroaig 10 back when it was more tarry...
I'm trying this for the first time while watching. I mostly taste tobacco smoke at first. I'm not a smoker, but there is something very reassuring and warming about that taste. After a few drops of water, the nose gets a little lighter and sweeter but I still get that interesting tobacco finish. Thanks Ralfy, great review on a very available single malt I can find in most supermarket's in the U.S. at 43% just like you said. I'm glad I finally picked this up! Cheers!
Quarter cask and cask strength are great 👍
It's my second single malt i ever bought for myself, it's lovely to me
The Laphroaig 10 is a staple of my budget whisky cupboard. Bottlings may change over the years but so do we.
Well said sir I couldn't agree more
It's pretty settled for me that I simply love Sherried whiskies. But now it's time to figure out if peat is for me. I have a Talisker 10 but it's too subtle. Time for a proper smoke bomb, waiting for my Laphroaig 10 to arrive
Dear Laphroaig: Please bring back the tar, soot, & ash.
. . . well said.
I only drank Laphroaig 10 for the first time this February and I can barely believe how different the bottle I bought this week is. It used to be a filthy beast with thick bonfire ash and smoked kipper notes and is now almost mannered with, as you identified, leaf mint aromas. It's not bad but it's not what I thought I was buying. :(
To me always preferred the 10 over the 15. I really enjoy the 2022 version, its a little toned down but delivers a great complex Isla flavour. £30 a bottle is more affordable and value for money than the Lagavulin 16 or 8 year olds or other duffers.
Enjoyed the review, maybe things should not always stay the same. Extra Cold Guiness anyone??
That room just calls to me. I'd love to just sit, talk and sip some scotch with this man! I can almost smell this room and feel the slight chill in the air.
Rock on Ralfy! Enjoying a dram of the 43% from my local TJ's. Thanks for these masterclasses.
Thank you Ralfy. I think I’ll just stick to the Quarter Cask. I feel that every 40% I have, be it Jameson, Glenlivet or any other whisky, it feels a little thin and “watery”. I’m considering just to stop buying anything below 43 or preferably 46% going forward as it seems to hold the flavors much better.
With whisky manufacturing becoming more refined and calculated is it now better to drink half as much but buy bottles twice the price to once again experience the smaller batch more 'authentic' bottlings from years gone by?
Glen Garioch’s core range is at 48% and non-chill filtered. As Laphroaig is also owned by Beam Suntory, so why can’t Laphroaig 10 be 46% and non-chill filtered?!
I'd like to see your review of the Laphroaig 10 yr cask strength. Supposedly it's mostly unfiltered as well as being at a higher strength. The regular 10 year old is bottled at 43% in the US which is a little better, but I agree that it should be at 46% at least. The price has been reflecting the lower quality here, I think, with regular discounts at the local big box liquor store. These discounts often put the price at $10-$15 less than Ardbeg 10. I like them both, I think there are some interesting flavors in the Laphroiag not experienced in the Ardbeg, but it is frustrating that it could be a lot better with a few simple tweaks (higher strength, non-chill-filtered, no added coloring).
Go ahead and go to the channel whisky Vault those guys are much more qualified than this guy to talk about any kind of whiskey and they would agree that you're just being a fucking snob if you won't drink something non-chill filtered, you fucking snob.
Who gives a s*** if they add coloring it does not affect the flavor and they don't need to tweak it because obviously whoever is in charge of the flavor profile of Laphroaig decided that they liked it the way it is
this dram goes down so easily imo. I just have it neat, have had two bottles and enjoyed both immensely. I also enjoyed Old Pulteney 12 and the Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair. But for a lovely peaty salty experience I love this dram for the price. Currently on Bushmills 10 - loved your review of that whiskey too. Thank you for your work!
My other favorite standard peateds, Ardbeg 10 and Ledaid 10 are unchill filtered and bottled at 46%. I wish Laphroaig would follow suit with their standard 10 year bottling. I'll add that another favorite, Port Charlotte Heavily Peated 10 yr old is bottled at 50%! The price is a bit higher though.
Love the reviews. Stupid question I suppose. Why do we get it at 43 percent in Cape Town and its 40percent in the UK?.
I was a regular buyer of the standard 40% 10-yo in the UK. Gave it a break over a few years. Now I live in North America and recently bought a 10-yo @ 43% ABV and it is not as good as the older 40% version I remember. off balance. I think the Quarter Cask is now the better dram.
Do you think it's possible that the distilleries which produce peated whiskies, might be adding the phenols artificially, instead of using 100% peat to flavour the malt? Thank you! - the Texan with over 40% Scottish DNA.
I wish you had the 4 seperate bottles with which to compare... like you did with the Johnnie Walker Reds you compared?
then again.. age in an open bottle makes a heck of a difference too!
Great review Ralfy. Thanks. I got out my bottle of 43% as I listened. Cheers from Colorado.
Ok….at age 58 finally tried a laphroaig 10…..initial thoughts….”Who poured iodine into my burnt seaweed”????? Even on the nose the aroma of “Old Doctors Office” was hard to get through…. Now at 43% (in the USA), the ethanol was not overpowering and the peaty smoke finish was pleasant….once i got past the medicinal aftertaste…..
I'm sticking with Ardbeg 10... and the Uigeadail.
Would it be out of the question heresy to mix a bit of the Quarter Cask 48% with the 10YO 40% to push some kick in to it as well as toning down the harshness of the QC at the same time?
. . . no heresy there, it's a good idea and will work well.
Totally agree about Laphroaig 10 Cask Strength. Something truly beautiful about that malt.
Just opened a new bottle of the 2019 10yr which I bought from Tesco's at £26. In my opinion the bottling a couple of years back was a lot richer in flavour. Still a lovely dram just not as full flavoured.
That's why I'm reading. It tastes like £26...
I remember when I first tasted a Laphroaigh in the 90th. It felt like I sat in the sunset of a small fishing harbour. The air was filled with smells from the salty water and seeweed, tarred hawsers and wooden boats. That's not there anymore.
I think you kind of nailed it. There was something mystical in a bottle of Laphroaig that seems to be missing now.
Great review, I love laphroaig, thanks for your expert thoughts as always.
This week was my first contact with Islay peat whiskeys. My first glass of Laphroaig 10 was overwhelming and somewhat disappointing. Two days later I tried Lagavulin 8 this time and was equally amazed and fascinated. I did not know that smoky aromas could marry so well with a sweetness that little by little it was coming out of its hiding place behind a smoke screen. Today I just gave Laphroaig 10 a second chance and this time I have managed to tune in to what this whiskey is capable of offering. It has taken me to Scorsese's movie "Shutter Island" over the cliff, into the cave with the fire, into the gloomy corridors of a drug-scented asylum. And suddenly, in two drinks it has turned into a placid beach gathering on a starry night with friends around a candle. And the anise, raisins and candied dark fruit have come out behind the same mysterious smokescreen from the beginning. What a trip, friends!
. . . It's all part of the Journey !
Laphroaig was the first whisky I could enjoy. I have tasted a few before that, not understanding why anyone would drink the stuff but Laphy hooked me good. It's still alot of hit n miss when tasting new stuff, there are many whiskies I will not touch again. Some suit me some don't -fascinating! The list of good and bad is growing long, will soon start to forget!!
It’s worth coming back to a whisky you didn’t previously enjoy. You might be surprised.
@@canal-do-guga-namura That is probably better advice than I first gave mental credit to; I had written off Highland Park (12 yr probably, 2008) with a score as "barely drinkable", I gave away a full bottle (-2cl taster) without blinking or remorse to a contractor working on my property... ,(Also gave away a Glen Morangie std edition, 12yr?). Come to 2019 and Highland Park 12 "Viking Honor" is actually quite ok.... Now... Question becomes, are there really much difference betwixt 'em? I have not done any research so I don't know... all I know is I had Viking Honor and it was ok enough I'd happily buy a bottle should a good price come along.
Imho. Quarter cask is the best of all Laphroaig offerings. 46% and non chill filtered.
The Quarter Cask here (California) is 48%....... I love the Cask Strength at 58% though!
Yes 48. My bad.
If available in your locale, the annual 2019 Laphroaig Càirdeas Triple Wood cask strength is just excellent. Yes, it's non age statement; however, it does not taste like it whatsoever and it's very smoky with a tonne of character which frankly blows the regular Triple Wood clear out of the water with all cannons at full bore.
The ordinary 10 year, 43% Laphroaig readily available here in the States is one of my favorite sippers. I'm one of those odd folks who actually LIKE it, and have since first sip in '83. (I describe its immediate flavor as tincture of iodine that has been filtered through a peat bog.)
I'd pick pretty much any other bottle of peated whiskey with higher ABV over Laphroaig 10 at this price point. But yesterday I came across 35 bucks a bottle and that's a steal. It's still peated, still great taste.
still have a bottle of Cairdeas that I bought in 2015 and a bottle of Quarter Cask that I bought in 2016 in my basement. The Cairdeas I really should drink because there's still about half a bottle left and I don't want it losing its luster. The Quarter Cask fro 2016, however, is still sealed.
We get the 43% bottling here in Canada and it’s worth every penny. Nothing beats a peated whisky on a winter’s night!
Great review, Ralfy. Really appreciate it - this was one of the first whiskies I ever tried in my teens. Might need to revisit it now, it's been a while.
The point about the US strength was interesting - I didn't know that. Lived there for two years and imported bottles were prohibitively expensive, to the point that I'd wait until someone was coming over from Scotland to bring me a bottle in their luggage.
Also, it would be cool to see a superedit video where you stitch the various reviews together (for those of us too lazy to look up each individually 😉)
I always found that the ABV for this is just too low. The taste drowns in the smell.
i finally got a bottle today and it is so good, now one of my favorites like maccallan. its nice a smoky nice nose. the taste is not strong, i taste the smoke, caramel, honey after tase to me and nice and smooth. it was $54 here and it is a great buy and add ti my collection.islay and highlands are my favorites.
I feel it a bit watery, what I don’t feel with the QC wich also has a longer finish.
So true. Laphroaig 10 CS (with a few drops of a water) is the most intense peat I have ever come across. It’s what I live for lol.
In my neck of the woods, Laphroaig 10 is 70 CDN and Lagavulin 16 is $135 and 10 is as old as I can buy from Laphroiag in my province. Seems like I should just splash out on the Lag16. Already bought Port ChArlotte 10 so don’t even know if it’s worth it to have both! The 10 is 43% at least ... edit just realized there is no 12 Laphroaig so I guess that’s it!
I have some Laphroaig Select and I couldn't figure out that last taste I was getting. It wasn't Anise as I taste with Lagavulin 16. It's spearmint !
Enjoying the 43% version of this here in Vancouver. Costs about $80 but at least it's available
Thats sucks a fat turd man. Do wgat the rest of Canada does and drive down to the u.s for liqour
It's hard to disagree since I live in the United States and get the privilege of 43%. Laphroaig 10 is still my favorite whiskey but agree 46% is where it should be.
I'm in the far east north of the United States and my Laphroaig is still at 44.4%
@@bigbud6842 I'll have to pay close attention. Good to know!
Just opened a bottle here in the US that was bottled in 2016 that I purchased in 2017. It's a 43% bottling here. I think that's standard here.
Great review as always. How about a comparison of this and Ardbeg 10, side by side by you. That would be interesting. I know you mark A10 five points higher. But would Laph 10 come close if it was 46% non chill-filtered and without E150 in it?
On with the show, Ralfy. Ever on my friend!
An extraordinary dram with the thickest scotch mist ever is G&M’s Glen Grant 2008 cask strength. Not expensive (£45) but very hard to find. Even G&M have none left. Only known source Luvians, Cupar (Fife). Definitely a 90+ malt mark in the making. Next time your in Scotland give me a shout and I’ll give you a bottle from my fast depleting stock!
Totally honest and outstanding sir!
My last bottle was lack luster, and flat, even at 43%. 😥
So was mine, very disappointed. Even a UK 5cl 40% bottle had a bit more meat to it. Probably batch variations but damn almost completely different whisky. Only the last quarter was any good.
I gave away my quarter cask as I wasn't even enjoying it! Plenty of other malts more deserving e.g. Ardbeg 10, Bruicladdich port charlotte, longrow!
Same experience here.
I didn't know that Laphroig 10 was chill filtered. It is 43% where I live but for some reason it is more expensive than the Ardbeg 10 I bought a while ago. I think I'll stick with my Ardbeg for now.
Ralf I’ve had heavily pleated whiskey and it’s like burnt tyres in a bottle
I'm not sure whether you still review comments on these older reviews, Ralfy, (forgive the familiarity, by the way!) but you say that the 43% alcohol brings out the flavours more than the 40%, You also, however, seem to suggest that adding a few drops of water releases the flavours of the 40% version but, surely, adding water further dilutes the alcohol to marginally below 40%. Could you explain how these two observations can be compatible? I'd also appreciate your recommendations as to other peaty single malts that might be a little less 'antiseptic' than the current Laphroaig 10 year-old, as I find the phenolic overtones somewhat overpowering in this particular whisky. Many thanks!
. . . adding water at point of sipping activates flavour, but after a few hours, the flavour fades.
Did I get lucky and catch a bottling at 43%, or is that just how it's sold in the states? It's what I could find. I'm a new whisky fan but I loved this. There's actually complexity to be found and there is sweetness despite the intense flavors. I definitely get the iodine / rubber and love it. Now, which is better Ardbeg 10 or Laphroaig 10? A battle for the ages
. . . sold in the U.S. at 43% most times.
Great work mate. Been following you from 2010. Would love it if you did a series of say top 5 or 10 single malts from each region in $ brackets. Cheers