Laphroaig Quarter Cask on Sale

Laphroaig Quarter Cask: A Deep Dive into Islay s Smoky Heart

Laphroaig Quarter Cask is a single malt Scotch whisky renowned for its powerful peat influence and bold character. Hailing from the windswept shores of Islay, this dram offers a unique exploration of smoke, sweetness, and spice, making it a favourite among peat enthusiasts and adventurous whisky drinkers alike.

Colour: Full sparkling gold. This vibrant hue hints at the rich flavours matured within the casks.

Nose:  The first impression is a wave of smouldering peat, a signature characteristic of Laphroaig. This is quickly joined by surprising notes of sweetness, with some tasters picking up coconut and banana. Hints of oak, vanilla, and a touch of seaside salinity emerge as the dram opens up. The overall impression is one of bold smokiness balanced by unexpected sweet and savoury notes.

Palate:  The initial burst of flavour is a delightful surprise. Unlike the nose, the sweetness hits first, with a rush of toffee, honey, and even a touch of fiery chilli heat. This sweetness is quickly joined by the expected Laphroaig peat influence, coating the tongue with a rich, earthy smokiness. Hints of TCP (a medicinal antiseptic flavour) and cereal notes add complexity, while a touch of cola syrup provides a playful counterpoint. The higher alcohol by volume (ABV) of 48% adds a pleasant warmth and viscosity to the dram.

Finish:  The finish is long and satisfying, with the smoke and spice lingering on the palate. Hints of fruit emerge alongside a touch of creamy custard, leaving a lasting impression of sweet and smoky complexity. Some tasters also detect a subtle cigar smoke note, adding a touch of elegance to the finish.

Serving Suggestions:

To fully appreciate the depth and complexity of Laphroaig Quarter Cask, it s recommended to enjoy it neat, allowing the full range of flavours to develop. Here are some tips to enhance your tasting experience:

• Neat:  Pour a measure of Laphroaig Quarter Cask into a whisky glass and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This allows the whisky to breathe and release its full aroma. Swirl the dram gently in the glass and take a sip, savoring the interplay of smoke, sweetness, and spice.
• With a Drop of Water:  A small amount of water can help to open up the flavours of the whisky, particularly for those new to peaty Islay malts. Add a single drop of water at a time, tasting in between additions, until you find your perfect balance of flavour intensity.
• Food Pairing:  Laphroaig Quarter Cask can be enjoyed alongside a variety of foods. Strong cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese complement the smokiness of the whisky. Smoked meats, oysters, and dark chocolate also pair well.

• Laphroaig Quarter Cask: A Whisky for the Adventurous

  Laphroaig Quarter Cask is not for the faint of heart. Its bold peat influence and powerful flavours will appeal to those who enjoy a truly distinctive whisky experience. The interplay of smoke, sweetness, and spice makes it a dram that rewards exploration. Whether you re a seasoned peat enthusiast or a curious whisky drinker looking to expand your palate, Laphroaig Quarter Cask is a single malt that deserves a place on your shelf.

  Additional Notes:

  • Maturation: Laphroaig Quarter Cask is double matured. First in ex-bourbon barrels, which impart notes of vanilla and sweetness. Then, it undergoes a second maturation in smaller quarter casks, which increases the wood contact and intensifies the flavours.
  • Islay Influence: Islay is a small island off the coast of Scotland, renowned for its production of heavily peated single malt whiskies. The island s peat bogs impart a distinct smoky character to the whisky, a characteristic that Laphroaig Quarter Cask embodies in full measure.

  • At The General Wine Company, we stock a wide range of single malt Scotch whiskies, including Laphroaig Quarter Cask. Explore our collection online or visit our store to discover your next dramming adventure.