Laphroaig Select | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Laphroaig Distillery, Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation Process: The Laphroaig Select is a blend of Laphroaig expressions matured in different types of casks: quarter casks, Pedro Ximénez (PX) casks, triple wood from European casks, and finally married together and matured for an additional six months in new American oak (virgin American oak).
Age Statement: No specific age statement mentioned, indicating it's a NAS (No Age Statement) whisky.
Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the presence of new American oak suggests a potentially vibrant color.
Bottle Design: Not described, but Laphroaig typically uses a distinctive, traditional bottle shape with clear labeling.

Balance of Flavors: The Laphroaig Select is described as having a strong, but not overwhelming, flavor profile with a well-rounded character.
Unique Characteristics: Noted for its massive smokiness, with a blend of honey, vanilla, and a strong oaky note. It also has a slightly salty note, which is typical for Islay whiskies.
Comparison: It's compared to the Laphroaig 10 but with notable differences, including a more intense aftertaste and a less phenolic character.

Ian Hunter's Influence: Ian Hunter, a key figure in Laphroaig's history, is credited with introducing the use of American oak casks to the distillery during a trip to Kentucky, USA, which was a significant shift from the traditional European oak casks.
Ownership History: Laphroaig's journey from being owned by Beam to being acquired by a Japanese company, highlighting its global connections and access to quality American white oak casks.

Islay's Distilling Freedom: The distillery's location on Islay is significant due to the island's exemption from certain distilling laws that applied to the mainland, allowing for a rich distilling culture to develop.
Globalization of Whisky Casks: The transition from European to American oak casks reflects broader trends in globalization and the whisky industry's evolving practices.

"The Select should be very much the same style with some undertones and, well, probably some missing years in the age because it is cheaper." - Horst Luening
"Love it or hate it." - Marketing slogan for Laphroaig, reflecting its polarizing flavor profile.

Laphroaig Select is a NAS single malt Scotch whisky from Islay, known for its smoky flavor profile with hints of honey, vanilla, and a strong oaky note.
It is a blend of whiskies matured in various casks, including quarter casks, PX casks, triple wood from European casks, and new American oak.
The whisky's flavor is intense and hefty, with a notable smokiness and a slightly salty note.
Ian Hunter's trip to Kentucky and the subsequent adoption of American oak casks is a key story in Laphroaig's history.
The whisky reflects the cultural and geographical significance of Islay and the global evolution of whisky cask usage.
Laphroaig's marketing slogan, "Love it or hate it," captures the whisky's polarizing nature.

For Peat Lovers: Individuals who enjoy heavily peated whiskies will likely appreciate Laphroaig Select's intense smokiness.
For Beginners to Islay Whiskies: Those new to Islay whiskies might find Laphroaig Select a challenging but rewarding introduction to the region's characteristic flavors.
For Whisky Collectors: Collectors looking for an affordable yet distinctive expression from Laphroaig may find the Select an interesting addition to their collection.