Laphroaig Càirdeas 2013 Port Wood Edition

 

 

 

51,3°

Distillery : Laphroaig - Islay

Ex-Bourbon Casks and Port Wood Finish 

Original Bottling 

Limited Edition 

Single Malt 

Bottled in 2013 

Unchillfiltered

Peated around 43 ppm

 

 

 

Since 2008, Laphroaig has released an annual edition of this Càirdeas (which means 'friendship' in Gaelic) at the time of Feis Ile, Islay's famous music festival. Each time, the distillate has undergone a different finishing process. Here it's the port casks.

 

 

 

 

Let's Taste It : 

Strong Port influence, with red plums, quinces, a hint of pastry and violets. The typical elements of the distillery are left to be desired. The peat does not impose itself, but maintains a certain balance. A bit of iodine behind. Slightly acidic, some charcoal grains. Woody influence. Oily and slightly maderised on the palate. Cherries in brandy. Apricot compote, tannins. Then a very explosive finish, fruit crumble and earth, quartz. Fermented damsons.

 

In Short, 

It's an interesting, and even enjoyable experience. But I find that the distillery's hallmarks, which I'm particularly fond of, are somewhat sidelined with this release, where the port is predominant. What's more, the price is disproportionate.

Score : 87 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                          To Be Listened While Sipping :

  

                                          Antony and The Johnsons - Fistful of Love