Laphroaig 10 Year Cask Str 116 750ml

Bottling at cask strength, with only ‘barrier filtering’ to remove particles of char, rather than the standard chill-filtration process, gives the whisky greater integrity, with heightened aromas and flavors, and a satisfyingly sinewy mouthfeel not found in the standard 10 year old. Classic ‘burning hospital’ notes feature on the nose, along with peaty malt, vanilla, lemon, and brine. Charcuterie and cocoa powder add to the effect on the palate, before phenolic, medicinal, and sweet malt notes bring things to a close. A must-have Laphroaig that represents a big step up in intensity.

Islay's Laphroaig is famed for its intensely peaty profile, and this single-malt Scotch delivers on that reputation. The amber spirit opens with a smoky aroma that's underpinned by vanilla and light floral notes. There's plenty of peat on the palate too, backed by olive brine, espresso and chocolate characteristics. Beware: Cask strength means that an overproof alcohol level delivers strong flavor but also a hefty burn.