MM Laphroaig 12 yo

[Ralph Katzenell]

Hello all,
A recent tasting of this whisky simply removed the option of not getting a bottle.
The label color scheme is Bruichladdich funny green. and:
Cask Type Bourbon / Tempranillo, Enhanced in Rioja casks, 12 yo at 46%.

Mr Google tells me "Tempranillo is often referred to as Spain's "noble grape"... and is the main variety in Rioja wines."
So what, exactly, is the label telling me?

Never mind all that just yet. 
The color is light pale brownish pink.
Nose is sweet and mildl to medium peaty, with a little smoke and the mouthfeel is smoooooth.
The palate has sweetness, restrained peat, some cereal, a little bourbon. Not at all your expected Laphroaig, as in the OB 10 yo. Easier drinking. If you are put off a bit by the agressiveness of some of the younger Ardbegs, this is well worth trying.
A warm, pleasant mildly smoky aftertaste.
More refills to the glass than intended.

What a lovely lovely drink. Goes superbly with South African lamb and roast potatoes.

And a wee by-the-way.
In Vinopolis (London Bridge) I got in a few good tastes of Ardbeg "Nearly There". In contrast to the dreadsful "Very Young" and barely acceptable "Still Young", this is quite drinkable. But the general impression is definately on the assertive, peat-monster side. The staff told me that we could expect this to be the new 10 yo profile. Ardbeg 10 is about to change. I think some of, blessed with non-teflon palates, are really going to have a lot of fun drinking it and writing it up.

Ralph  


 

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