Prime Malt 3 Types + Laphroaig 10 Year Amber Label, U.S.-Bound, 1980s Circulation

A preliminary tasting event was held for IAN, who will be exhibiting at the Whisky Lovers Nagoya 2018 on January 21st of next year in Nagoya. Fortunately, I was able to attend on a day when my work in Tokyo aligned with the event schedule. With only limited time, there were 20 types available, so I couldn't conduct detailed tastings for all of them. However, I will report on this in several parts. First, the main focus: the 1980s-circulated Prime Malt 3 types + Laphroaig 10 Year Amber Label, U.S.-bound. Prime Malt 3 Types + Laphroaig 10 Year Amber Label, U.S.-bound, 1980s Circulation Prime Malt Label 12 Year Finest Islay Single Malt Label Prime Malt Label 12 Year Laphroaig Label Prime Malt Label 15 Year Finest Islay Single Malt Label 10 Year Official Amber Blend Label, U.S.-bound I was able to taste these four types consecutively. There was a rumor that this Prime Malt was bottled for the U.S. market. Among them, three types left a strong impression. First, the Prime Malt 12 Year Finest Label. The aroma had a concentrated quality reminiscent of the official 10 Year Amber Blend from the same period, and the initial flavor impression matched that expectation. However, in the mid to latter part of the taste, there was a Bowmore-like perfumed aroma. This type of perfume note is not typically found in Laphroaig, and while it might be a result of aging, I found it intriguing. The grapefruit or melon-like fruity flavors reminiscent of older Laphroaig were very close to the perfume notes, so perhaps this bottle leaned more towards the perfumed side due to aging. However, it wasn't an overwhelming perfume that lingered strongly after drinking; rather, it had a balanced character and was very interesting and delicious. On the other hand, the Prime Malt 12 Year with Laphroaig label had a scent and flavor that strongly resembled the concentrated, powdery characteristics of Laphroaig Amber. With a slightly higher alcohol content, it had a solid body and was right in my favorite style. I couldn't help but be entranced. The comparison between these two 12 Year bottles was a luxury, but it was extremely enjoyable. Lastly, the Laphroaig 10 Year Amber Label for the U.S. market had a distinct sherry influence among the Ambers, with a viscous texture that left an impression. While I was aware such lots occasionally exist, this one leaned particularly towards the sherry side in aroma and flavor. It was exceptionally delicious in its own right. These four types, being U.S.-bound and rare to obtain, are now highly valuable. Being able to compare these eras of my favorite Laphroaig was a rare and precious experience. Thank you. The label below SELECTION No.1 differs. *Note added on 12/25: It seems Prime Malt is not necessarily always Laphroaig. My apologies for the earlier assumption. Indeed, the 15 Year had a unique and interesting aroma, but it also had a distinct bitterness that made me think of another distillery's flavor. #Laphroaig (LAPHROAIG)