Laphroaig 15 - #4 of Leading Single Malt Scotch Brands

Laphroaig 15

Produced at the storied Laphroaig distillery on the south coast of the Scottish isle of Islay, Laphroaig 15 is the smooth, sophisticated sibling of other famous Laphroaig whiskies, including the 10-year and rare 40-year aged Laphroaigs. Say what you will about Scotch single malt: there's no doubt that Laphroaig is one of the most distinctive. Distilled and then carefully aged for a solid 15 years, this famous spirit has a pungent, woodsy quality that glides over the tongue and leaves behind a pleasant earthiness tinged with the scent and tone of almonds, with a feeling that some describe as oily...and they mean it as a compliment. Blue peat smoke, nutty barley and the faint bite of heather fields leave a slight saltiness, like a Scottish sea wind, with a sweetly biting finish to remember it by. Some call the taste medicinal, some are reminded of seaweed. However they describe it, Laphroaig 15 devotees have certainly proven their loyalty: when the whisky was discontinued in 2010 and replaced with the 18-year version, the 15 quickly became a sought-after collectible. In fact, the outcry was so great that 15 is returning to the market in early 2015.