New Release: Laphroaig 1996-2016 20 Year Old Speciality Drinks 'Masterpieces' 50.6%

A sweet sherry-forward Laphroaig. Laphroaig LAPHROAIG 1996-2016 20yo SPECIALITY DRINKS 'MASTERPIECES' 50.6% PEDRO XIMENEZ SHERRY BUTT The nose offers a mellow sweetness of sherry, plum jam, apple tart, chocolate, with hints of cinnamon, herbs, and a strong peat note. On the palate, it begins with a smooth mouthfeel expanding into rich berry and plum jam flavors, with a mellow, concentrated sweetness. It is balanced by some woody tannins and herbal liqueur bitterness, savory umami from seafood stock, strong peat, and a long, sweet finish. [Good/Very Good, Interesting] New release from the Whisky Exchange: Laphroaig 1996, 20-year-old matured. This Masterpieces series was curated by Mr. Skinner, the Exchange's representative, selecting special casks he considers true masterpieces. Previously, Longmorn, Bowmore, Clynelish, Caol Ila, and Bruichladdich casks were featured. While Bowmore 1993 is widely recognized as a masterpiece, others in the series have not stood out significantly to me or those around me. Particularly, the previous younger Bruichladdich release did not align with my preferences. This latest release is Laphroaig, which I was eager to try given Mr. Skinner's track record of releasing exceptional Laphroaig bottlings. Upon tasting, I was surprisingly struck by its sweetness. The cask must have retained a significant amount of Pedro Ximenez sherry, as the aroma and flavor prominently displayed rich fruit and cake-like sweetness. While elements like woody tannins and herbal bitterness provide structure, the overwhelming sweetness was undeniable. Naturally, Laphroaig's signature peaty character—umami reminiscent of dashi broth and strong iodine notes—was clearly present. Though somewhat unconventional, this is an intriguingly unique Laphroaig, evoking a dessert whisky. While not traditional, its distinctive and delicious profile justifies the 'Masterpiece' designation. #Laphroaig (LAPHROAIG)