Whisky Review/Tasting: Laphroaig 30Y - 1985 / 2016

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Laphroaig Distillery, Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Double maturation in first and second fill ex-bourbon barrels. The whisky is cask strength at 53.5% ABV.
Age Statement: 30 years old, vintage 1985.
Color and Bottle Design: The whisky is described as having a bright gold color. The bottle and packaging are designed with a vintage style, featuring copper-style printing on the label and an envelope, copper or brass hinges, and a magnetic ring to secure the bottle. The design emphasizes luxury and quality, befitting a whisky of its price and age.

Nose: Fruity with mandarin and mango, toasted almond, coconut, aromatic peat oils, cedar, wintergreen, smoked sage, honey, and apricot.
Palate: Oily mouthfeel, orange peel, vanilla, coriander leaf, wild root ginseng, with a complex balance of fruitiness and light smokiness.
Finish: Long and complex, with pulpy stone fruit and chewy green hand-rolled tobacco.
Overall: The whisky is noted for its exceptional smoothness, complexity, and balance of flavors, with a remarkable fruitiness and a hint of smokiness without being overwhelmed by either.

The Laphroaig distillery is highlighted for its traditional practices, including malting 10% of its barley on-site and the unique character of its distilling room. An anecdote about finding a mouse on the malting floor humorously illustrates the abundance of grain at the distillery, emphasizing the natural and traditional aspects of whisky production.

The distillery's proximity to the sea and the myth of saltiness in Laphroaig whisky are discussed, attributing the maritime notes to the whisky's flavor profile rather than actual salt content. The economic context of 1985, including the British recession and its impact on whisky production, is mentioned, highlighting the rarity and value of a 30-year-old cask from that period.

"Very fruity, very fruity," and "It's awesome," are used to describe the whisky, emphasizing its exceptional fruitiness and overall excellence.
The hosts express their admiration for the whisky's complexity, smoothness, and the way it balances intense flavors without overwhelming alcohol sharpness, despite its high ABV.

Laphroaig 30Y 1985/2016 is a cask strength single malt Scotch whisky, celebrated for its bright gold color, vintage packaging, and double maturation process.
It boasts a complex flavor profile with a notable balance of fruitiness and light smokiness, alongside an oily mouthfeel and a long, complex finish.
The distillery's traditional practices and the economic context of its vintage year add to the whisky's storytelling and cultural significance.
Expert opinions highlight the whisky's exceptional smoothness, complexity, and unique flavor balance, making it a highly praised and sought-after bottle.

For Connoisseurs: The complexity and unique balance of flavors make this whisky particularly appealing to experienced whisky drinkers who appreciate nuanced profiles and the craftsmanship of traditional distillation and maturation processes.
For Collectors: The rarity, vintage appeal, and luxurious packaging of this whisky make it an attractive addition to any collection, especially for those interested in significant historical vintages.
For Special Occasions: Given its price point and exceptional quality, this whisky is ideal for celebrating significant milestones or as a prestigious gift for discerning whisky enthusiasts.