New Release: Laphroaig 2001-2016 15yo Edition Spirits First Edition #12382 58.4%

A surprisingly amazing new release that was a pleasant surprise. Laphroaig LAPHROAIG 2001-2016 15yo EDITION SPIRITS "THE First Editions" #12382 58.4% one of 306 bottles, REFILL BUTT The aroma features a rich sherry character with dried fruits like dates and raisins, herbs reminiscent of bouquet garni along with spices such as clove, coffee and bitter chocolate, earthy notes with a faint leather sensation, nuts, seaweed-infused briny air, and a strong classic peat character with pronounced iodine. On the palate, it begins with a smooth mouthfeel that expands powerfully and aromatically, delivering intense sherry depth, dried fruits with a chewy texture, bitter chocolate and coffee notes, herbs and clove spices, a good balance of sweetness and tannins, briny seaweed elements, umami-rich seafood dashi flavors, and a robust peat character with pronounced iodine. The finish is long and classic. [Very Good] This Laphroaig 2001, 15-year-old release is from Edition Spirits' First Editions series, founded by Andrew Stewart, son of Hunter Laing's Stewart. Although labeled as a "Refill Butt," it is clearly a sherry cask. From the first impression of the aroma, there was a surprising diversity centered around a strong sherry character. Notes of dried fruits, coffee and chocolate, herbs, spices, and even faint earthy and leather elements were present. The classic Laphroaig seaweed iodine and smoky seafood peat character assertively emerged with a unified presence. On the palate, it has a smoother mouthfeel than its ABV suggests, expanding aromatically and powerfully with a concentrated chewy texture. Similar to the aroma, it has a remarkably strong and diverse sherry cask character, with clearer earthy and leathery elements than the aroma. The balance of sweetness and tannins is well executed, with rich umami from seafood dashi elements harmonizing perfectly with the classic iodine-infused strong peat character. Despite its richness and diversity, it is remarkably smooth with no rough edges, finishing with a long, enjoyable aftertaste. Unlike some recent Laphroaig releases that have a strong charcoal-like character, this one is personally refreshing. It's clearly an outstanding sherry cask Laphroaig with classic character, and I feel it still has room to develop further. I believe it will become even more diverse and complex in the future, with increased depth and a sense of intoxication and seduction. It's definitely a candidate for a rating of VG/E or higher. This is such an exceptional bottle that makes one think, "This must be what a legendary release feels like." I even purchased several bottles myself. Even without considering my personal fondness for Laphroaig, this is an outstanding bottle. I'm very much looking forward to seeing how it develops.