Tag: Islay Whisky Page 3 of 10

Whisky of the Week review and tasting notes for whisky from the Islay whisky region in Scotland.

Despite the small size of the island and the limited amount of distilleries, the Hebridean island of Islay is considered as one of the most distinct regions. Because of this, Islay has become a centre of “whisky tourism”. The whiskies from Islay are known for their powerful smoky, peaty character.

Currently there are nine Islay distilleries. They incude Ardbeg, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila, Kilchoman, Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Port Charlotte. The famous Port Ellen distillery closed its doors in 1983. Bruichladdich is the only distillery on the island that merely produces unpeated single malt whisky.

Lagavulin 16 year old Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 12/26/2022

In Single Malt whisky

If you know about peaty whisky, the name “Lagavulin 16 year old” is bound to cross your path. This single malt whisky has become a cult classic, often serving as the measuring stick for Islay peatiness.

It’s a perennial favourite among many of my whisky-loving friends, and today, I am delving into the intriguing world of Lagavulin 16 year old Islay single malt Scotch whisky.

Lagavulin 16 yo whisky, a cornerstone of the Islay scene, has long been celebrated for its distinctive character. My journey into the Lagavulin universe began with the Distillers Edition. Now, it’s time to acquaint myself with its iconic 16 yo counterpart.

Lagavulin is a historic distillery with centuries-old roots, situated in a picturesque bay along Islay’s south coast. The name “Lagavulin” translates from Gaelic to “Lag a’ Mhuilinn,” signifying the hollow of the mill.

Founded by local farmer John Johnston in 1816, it stands proudly within sight of Dunyvaig Castle. However, illicit distillation has been a covert art in these parts for much longer. For a deeper dive into Lagavulin’s rich history, check out the details in my Distillers Edition blog post.

Among Diageo’s “Classic Malts of Scotland,” a prestigious lineup with Cragganmore, Dalwhinnie, Glenkinchie, Oban, and Talisker, Lagavulin holds its own distinctive place. This distinction can be attributed to its meticulous distillation process involving slow distillation speeds and pear-shaped pot stills.

Lagavulin offers various expressions, including the Lagavulin 8 year old, the different Distillers Editions, luxurious 25 year old and 30 year old bottlings, and regular 12 year old releases. The Lagavulin 16 year old single malt whisky was aged in oak barrels and boasts a peat level of approximately 35 ppm.

Also Read: Tamnavulin Double Cask Whisky

Lagavulin 16 year old Whisky Review

REGION: Islay

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Dark gold

NOSE: The nose has notes of liquorice, smoke, subtle hints of peat, and tantalizing fruity sweetness. Oak, iodine, and vanilla notes dance delicately in the background, creating a beautifully balanced olfactory experience.

PALATE: Dry oak and peat form the backbone, complemented by a gentle cherry sweetness and wisps of smoke. The medium body carries traces of iodine and tar. It is not very complex and somewhat one-dimensional.

FINISH: Lagavulin 16 year old whisky leaves you with a medium-length finish with lingering peatiness, hints of oak, and a touch of vanilla.

RATING: VERY GOOD

We exchanged slightly disappointed glances as I shared this Lagavulin moment with John. Our anticipation was high, yet the experience didn’t match the hype. While undoubtedly peaty with its signature smokiness and fruity undertones, Lagavulin 16 year old single malt lacked the depth and wow factor we had hoped for.

It displayed a few rough edges and didn’t quite live up to the impeccable balance promised by its nose. This particular bottle might be in my collection for an extended period.

The Lagavulin 16 year old Scotch is one of those whiskies that begs to be paired with a robust cheese. Imagine the intense flavours of Blue Stilton or Roquefort cheese intermingling with the peaty nuances of this Islay classic. It is a match made in heaven for any connoisseur.

In my ongoing series of side-by-side comparisons, I’ve ventured into a Lagavulin versus Ardbeg 10 yo whisky comparison as well as an Uigeadail versus Lagaulin comparison. Are you curious to see how these titans of Islay measure up against each other? Dive into the world of peat and flavour with my detailed analysis.

As you venture forth on your whisky journey, remember that Lagavulin 16 year old whisky is an essential stop on discovering the rich, smoky wonders of Islay single malt.

Whether it completely sweeps you off your feet or not, its legendary status is undeniable, making it an experience every whisky enthusiast should undertake.

Also Read: Loch Lomond Steam and Fire Whisky

Laphroaig PX Cask Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 11/28/2022

In Single Malt whisky

It is my second Laphroaig I am tasting this year. Earlier in 2015, I tasted the Laphroaig An Cuan Mor whisky. The Laphroaig PX Cask Islay single malt Scotch whisky and the An Cuan Mor bottling are part of three travel retail exclusive releases from Laphroaig.

I notice that the PX Cask and the An Cuan Mor are now available more widely, even in South Africa.

The third bottle in this series is the Laphroaig Quarter Cask whisky. Laphroaig is a single malt Scotch whisky distillery on the beautiful Islay. It is named for the area of land at the head of Loch Laphroaig on the south coast of Islay.

The Johnston brothers founded the distillery in 1810 on what was originally a family-run farm. Laphroaig’s distinctive flavour comes in part from its vicinity to the coast and the high moss content of its peat, which is processed in the distillery’s floor maltings.

The Laphroaig PX Cask single malt whisky is matured in three types of cask. The spirit is aged initially in American oak bourbon casks and then in quarter casks before a final finishing period in ex-Pedro Ximenez sherry casks. It has no age statement, but looking at some of the comments on line, it seems that the release is at least 10 years old.

The three different casks give this Laphroaig PX bottling a flavour profile which ties together the classic, peaty Laphroaig smoke and the sherry sweetness. The distillery and brand are owned and operated by Beam Suntory, the American subsidiary of Japan’s Suntory Holdings.

We took this bottle with us on our escape to the Golden Gate National Park in the Free State. What more can you ask for, the mountains in the back and a Laphroaig in the glass in front of you?

Related Article: Ardbeg Uigeadail whisky

Laphroaig PX Cask Whisky Review

REGION: Islay

ABV: 48%

COLOUR: A wonderful old gold colour.

NOSE: Hints of sweetness, followed by the traditional smoke and peat that Laphroaig is known for. There are hints of raisins with bits of seaweed and nuts. The nose is a wonderful balance between the peaty Laphroaig notes and the sherry sweetness.

PALATE: This dram is something else. It is a riot of different tastes. There are smoke, Christmas Cake, oak, seaweed, peat and tar mixed with hints of a coal pit and some ash. Bit of spiciness floats around in between the bare hints of the sweet wine notes.

The sweetness is not overwhelming but also does not disappear in the peat. It has a beautiful balance. Water brings out more of the fruity sweetness and smooths out the peaty notes. But you need to add the water sparingly.

FINISH: Long and lingering with hints of tar, oak, hints of spice and ending in fruity sweet notes.

RATING: EXCELLENT

An amazing dram. I did not give this a Divine rating because the flavours seemed a bit disjointed. There are lots of flavours, but it is as if they did not spend enough time together in the last cask.

My regular readers would know, John loves his peaty whiskies while I prefer the sweeter, softer drams. But this peaty PX Cask Scotch blew us both away. We both loved it. The balance is perfect, and the sweetness makes the coal pit, ash and tar taste like something from heaven. Strange but true!

I paired this Laphroaig PX cask with coconut macarons for my New Years Eve celebration. I was hesitant to try this combination, but was pleasantly surprised when the Laphroaig paired beautifully with the sweet coconut.

The Laphroaig PX Cask release is rather expensive though. In South Africa, it retails for around R2400 and in the UK for around £110 on Amazon.

Laphroaig has also released a Port Cask Finish. It is not part of this specific series, but I have managed to taste the Laphroaig Brodir release as well as the Laphroaig Four Oak whisky as well.

Also Read: Lagavulin Distillers Edition whisky

Ardbeg 10 Year Old Single Malt Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 06/02/2022

In Single Malt whisky

If you’re hunting for a classic peat release, look no further than the Ardbeg 10 year old Islay single malt whisky. This Scottish gem hails from the renowned Islay region, celebrated for its distinctive peat and sea-influenced flavours. But before I delve into the depths of this extraordinary single malt, let’s set the scene.

Johannesburg boasts a unique treasure for whisky enthusiasts – Whisky Brother, the city’s first whisky speciality whisky shop. Marc, the owner and all round expert is our go-to guy for all things whisky. And through his enticing tweet, we found ourselves at the Ardbeg Day tasting.

At the event, we sampled various Ardbeg whisky releases. The Ardbeg 10 year old stood out among them, and we took a bottle home. In honour of Ardbeg Day, we immediately popped the cork on that very Saturday.

Now, let’s talk Ardbeg. Situated on the remote Scottish island of Islay, this distillery is a place of exquisite beauty, making it a destination I aspire to someday visit. I’ve shared detailed insights about Ardbeg in many other blog posts, so remember to check those out.

In September 2016, a group of adventurous souls embarked on a three-day journey along the rugged Islay Coast. Guided by Distillery Manager Mickey Heads and survival expert Monty Halls, these “ARDventurers” conquered the island’s untamed coastline, wild peat bogs, misty hills, and brooding lochs, all vying for the title of Ultimate ARDventurer.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the star of the show – the Ardbeg 10 year old whisky. The 10 year old is aged exclusively in ex-bourbon barrels. It’s non-chill filtered, ensuring a fuller, richer flavour. Ardbeg’s core range includes other exceptional expressions like the Ardbeg Wee Beastie, the An Oa, Uigeadail, and the Ardbeg Corryvreckan whisky.

Related Article: Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla whisky

Ardbeg 10 year old Islay Single Malt Whisky Review

REGION: Islay

ABV: 46%

COLOUR: Quite light, with hints of green.

NOSE: As we nosed the Ardbeg 10, there were distinctive peat and wood smoke notes. In the background is a hint of orange sweetness with light vanilla and sea salt. However, the first impression wasn’t overwhelming; it was an inviting and intriguing aroma with a touch of sweetness in the background.

PALATE: Upon tasting, the complexity of this whisky unravelled. Beyond the initial peat, we detected warming citrus notes and hints of vanilla, followed by subtle hints of coffee and a touch of iodine and pepper.

The Ardbeg 10 year old is undoubtedly a bold whisky, but it doesn’t overpower the palate. It’s a symphony of well-balanced Islay flavours and a truly elegant dram.

FINISH: This Ardbeg has one of the longest and most full-bodied finishes I’ve ever experienced. It lingers and evolves on the palate, creating an unforgettable journey of flavours. It’s no wonder that Jim Murray showered it with praise. It ends in notes of smoky sweetness with light black pepper.

RATING: EXCELLENT

This whisky has swiftly become one of my favourites from Islay. When winter comes around and the urge to cosy up by the fire strikes, the Ardbeg 10 year old is the perfect companion. It balances peat, smoke, and sweetness harmoniously while maintaining its bold character.

But there’s more to this whisky than just sipping it neat. I’ve used the Ardbeg 10 year old whisky to craft delightful whisky truffles, and it even earned a spot on my “Top 5 Single Malt Whiskies” list.

If you’re curious how the Ardbeg 10 year old stacks up against other iconic drams, stay tuned for my comparative series, where I compared it against the Talisker 10 year old and the Lagavulin 16 year old whisky.

In 2023, I compared the Ardbeg 10 year old and the Ardbeg An Oa single malt release. To discover which one emerged victorious, follow the link. Cheers to the world of Ardbeg!

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Island Green Whisky

Ardbeg Scorch Islay Single Malt Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 03/14/2022

In Single Malt whisky

Today I look at the Ardbeg Day release of 2021: The Ardbeg Scorch Islay single malt Scotch whisky. I seldom buy or open my Ardbeg day releases because the liquid does not always live up to the hype, fanfare (and high price). The Ardbeg Day releases are drinkable but nothing mind-blowing most of the time.

Usually, the Ardbeg Day releases are average, but every couple of years, there is a fantastic bottle; I loved the Ardbeg Supernova release but found Dark Cove a bit bland. I have noticed a similar sentiment looking at other comments on the Ardbeg release.

A limited number of Ardbeg Scorch bottles made it to SA, and I did not get a bottle in the initial offering. Then a whisky friend, Luben, gave me a sample from his bottle.

Ardbeg is John’s favourite distillery, and after tasting the sample, he was in love. I knew I had to get my hands on a bottle if possible.

Fortunately, I found a bottle at the WhiskyShop in Fourways towards the end of 2021 and trust me, it was the best gift John got. He was over the moon.

The 2021 release is “Ardbeg’s tribute to the legendary dragon of Islay.” Ardbeg Scorch whisky is matured in its most heavily charred ex-bourbon American oak casks.

There is no age statement, and it is non-chill filtered and without added colour. Ardbeg distillery is part of the LVMH group of companies.

Also Read: Kilchoman Sanaig Whisky

Ardbeg Scorch Islay Whisky Review

REGION: Islay

ABV: 46%

COLOUR: Amber pale gold

NOSE: Bonfire smoke next to the ocean, peat with toasted oak and vanilla, green pine branches and spices. Tar coated poles with hints of cigar smoke. Salted caramel and toffee apple sweetness. Big and bold, typical Ardbeg nose.

PALATE: Ash, charred wood with earthy peat and salt. Big, creamy and bold, right in your face. There is a fruity sweetness and vanilla behind the smoke mixed with some espresso and bitter chocolate on the second sip.

Sorch has the typical Ardbeg medicinal notes with a meaty flavour and a light lemon pepper sprinkling. It was so amazing; we finished our first glass without water. Complex and not an every day drinking dram.

FINISH: A long and lingering finish. With notes of ash and smoke and toasted oak and lemon pepper.

RATING: DIVINE

Just delicious! This is the first Ardbeg Day release in many years that I don’t mind owning, opening and drinking. I will be sad when it is finished.

The balance between the smoke and the hints of sweetness and spice is perfect. The smoky flavour is inviting you in for a taste; like BBQ smoke on the wind. You can smell it and know that there is fun to be had, but it does not suffocate or overwhelm you.

It left John and me with huge smiles, and even my sweet palate was not complaining. For a change, the Ardbeg Day release lives up to the hype. My bottle will not last long.

Also Read: How to Start a whisky club

Black Bottle Blended Scotch Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 01/03/2022

In Blended whisky

Black Bottle is a blended Scotch whisky bottled by Burn Stewart Distillers. Gordon Graham and Co., based in Aberdeen, created Black Bottle in 1879. The three Aberdonian tea blender brothers decided to try their hand at blending whisky.

Their blending skills proved to be respectable and demand for their whisky increased.The name came from its original bottle design based on black German glass. In 1914, following the outbreak of World War 1, it was impossible to get the glass from Germany.

Since then, the non-vintage bottle has been dark green. The company remained in family hands until 1959.

Related Article: Teacher’s Whisky

After a couple of different owners, the brand was acquired by Burn Stewart and is now part of the Distell stable. In 2013, the brand was relaunched. Owners Burn Stewart decided to return the brand to its 1879 origins, including the black glass that gave the blend its name.

I have gotten hold of the older green bottle and below is a bit of a comparison between the two releases. The older green bottle is said to be a blend of all the Islay distilleries. Compared to the old release, the new release is smoother and has Speyside drams blended in. Closer to the original tea blender recipe.

Black Bottle Blended Scotch Whisky Review

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Dark cold colour in the glass. It has hints of polished copper. Rich and oily.

NOSE: Very subtle with hints of florals, toffee sweetness and spices. After having stood for a bit, there are faint hints of vanilla and caramel pears. A bit of smoke and malts peep through in the background.

PALATE: Without water, the Black Bottle palate is smoky and rich. It has a nice big body filled with fruity notes, burnt sugars and spice. After adding water, this blended Black Bottle whisky becomes remarkably smooth. It is complex and rich. When you add water, more floral notes appear on the palate. It is a very easy drinking whisky.

FINISH: Well rounded and smooth and end in notes of smoke and honeyed sweetness.

RATING: EXCELLENT

It is a wonderfully unpretentious blended Scotch whisky that will have you reaching for a second glass. The best thing about this whisk; it is affordable. It retails for around R300 in South Africa. Showing once again, whisky does not have to be expensive to be great. I also used the Black Bottle to make a Valentines Day cocktail.

During a chat with Pierre Meintjies, (SA’s own Master of the Quaich), he suggested that we put our Black Bottle whisky in the freezer for a week and pair it with dark chocolate. I paired it with a bar of organic dark chocolate.

The 72% cacao chocolate has an intense fruity flavour and is slightly spicy. The Black Bottle came out of the freezer syrupy and ice-cold. It paired very nicely with the bitter dark chocolate. A great combination.

Also Read:Compass Box Peat Monster

Comparing: Black Bottle Old vs New

I found an older Black Bottle whisky in a small liquor shop and decided to do a side by side comparison with the new bottle. What a big difference. I think a picture defines the difference best.

Notable differences: Old vs New

The older Black Bottle is a lighter golden colour compared to the newer release. The nose tells you that this is Islay. There are notes of peat, spice smoke and seaweed. It is big and bold and rough around the edges. There is an alcohol burn that is softened by adding a bit of water. The water brings out the peaty ash and TCP and some sweetness.

Side by side, the new release has more fruity notes. The new bottling is smoother, softer and easier to sip. It is more versatile and does work well in cocktails. I would not even think of bringing the older bottling close to a cocktail.

The older bottling is big, bold in your face – ‘take it or leave it” whisky. You can taste the salty Islay coast. The older version is big and bold and unquestionable Islay. It reminds me of an old fisherman with his pipe. With a few drops of water, I like it, a lot! Big and bold and uncompromising.

The new version is great in a different way. It appeals to a broader market and is more adaptable. It reminds me of a young Mr Darcy from Bridget Jones. Handsome, intelligent, mature, but fun. Sadly they don’t release the older version of the Black Bottle anymore.

If you like Islay whiskies and you spot the odd bottle in retail, pick it up. It is a bit of Islay history worth having. A unique and special part of any collection.