Laphroaig is a renowned distillery located on the beautiful island of Islay in Scotland. Known for its distinctive peaty and smoky flavor profile, Laphroaig has been producing exceptional single malt Scotch whisky for over 200 years.
Laphroaig Select is one of the core expressions of this iconic distillery. It is a carefully crafted whisky that brings together casks from different styles to create a unique and flavorful drinking experience.
The key difference between Laphroaig and Laphroaig Select lies in the composition of the whisky. Laphroaig Select is a marriage of various casks, including Quarter Cask, PX Cask, Triple Wood (Oloroso sherry), and a final addition of 10 Year Old whisky. This combination of casks adds complexity and depth to the whisky, creating a well-rounded and balanced flavor profile.
The Quarter Cask casks used in the production of Laphroaig Select are smaller in size compared to regular casks, allowing for more interaction between the whisky and the wood. This results in a faster maturation process and intensifies the flavors of peat and smoke in the whisky.
The PX Cask, also known as Pedro Ximenez cask, is a type of sherry cask that imparts rich and sweet flavors to the whisky. The Triple Wood casks have been seasoned with Oloroso sherry, adding additional layers of complexity and depth to the whisky.
The final addition of 10 Year Old whisky brings maturity and balance to Laphroaig Select. This older whisky adds a smoothness and richness to the overall flavor profile, complementing the bold and peaty characteristics for which Laphroaig is famous.
In terms of taste, Laphroaig Select offers a complex and well-balanced combination of flavors. The peat smoke is prominent, giving the whisky a distinct smoky aroma and taste. There are also notes of brine, seaweed, and a slight medicinal character, which are characteristic of Islay whiskies.
Laphroaig, on the other hand, is available in various expressions, each offering its own unique flavor profile. The 10 Year Old expression, for example, is the flagship whisky of the distillery and is known for its intense peat smoke, maritime flavors, and a hint of sweetness. Other expressions, such as the Quarter Cask and Triple Wood, offer different variations and nuances of the Laphroaig style.
Laphroaig Select is a carefully crafted whisky that combines casks from different styles to create a unique flavor profile. It offers a balanced combination of peat smoke, sweetness, and complexity. Laphroaig, on the other hand, encompasses a range of expressions, each with its own distinct characteristics. Both whiskies showcase the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to quality that Laphroaig is known for.