When released in the US around August 2009, this retailed for around $140. Prices have since dropped and now it can be found for as low as half that amount.
Well, here it is... whatever was "wrong" with Laphroaig 15 (which I always liked... and strangely enough I have no formal notes on, gonna have to fix that), the 18 is here to replace it. And a lot more expensive too. Let's see...
Smoke on the nose is immediate. Dusty. Bazooka bubblegum. Light caramels. The palate is tamed smoke, medium-sweet. Medicinal aspects are present but not overwhelming. Light fruits. The finish is very long, and peaks after a moment, being where the 48% is most noticeable. If you weren't a fan of the 15-year, then this probably won't do it for you -- although the ABV does keep it rather punchy, it's nonetheless still rather refined and elegant flavor-wise. I actually find it rather similar to the 15, it's kind of like they just turned up the volume somewhat. Makes a great peated digestif.
I didn't like the 15. the 10 was better. This is just a step above the 10 (maybe). When I first tasted this I was disappointed. I'd never pay $150. Sorry Laphroaig. I've seen these at $70. Still haven't pulled the trigger, but might.
B-
(retry with 2014 bottling)
n: Peaty iodine in a tin bucket.
p: Ash and axle grease. One dimensional peat but enjoyable enough. A hint of citrus.
N: Immediate peat followed by a waft of medicinal sherry then hint of sweet berries or light colored cherries.
P: Alcohol is a bit heavy - makes it hard to taste the flavors. Peat definitely comes through though.
F: Whereas the palate is hard to decipher, the finish is where it's at. The strong peat transforms into the hints found in the nose - sherry, also chocolate.
Real unexpected sweetness. My favorite Laphroaig I think.
A-
BLIND RETASTE:
N: Grassy and moldy
P: Sweet & vegetal - green smoothie, me likey
F: Little hot which overpowers some nice flavors
A different experience when tasted blind, especially when it was directy up against Laphroaig's entire line. Still like it, but it definitely got bumped down a bit.
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