Toiteach a Dha is the first peated malt to be added to the brand's permanent range. On the nose, youll find vanilla cream, dried fruits, charred wood, and herbal, smoky peat. The Lagavulin 16-Year-Old has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the Best Single Malt Whisky at the World Spirits Competition (San Francisco) in 2013 and earning a total of six Double Gold Medals within the same competition. Theres nothing much fancy about the bottles of these two brands. 40.95 in the Whisky Exchange. This is one of thebest malts for smoke enthusiasts. While it shares some of the flavor profiles of Scotch whisky, its completely distinctive at the same time. The water used by the Laphroaig distillery comes from the Kilbride Stream, which is full of peaty flavor and is pulled from the stream, whereas Ardbegs water comes from the nearby lake of Loch Uigeadail. If you take a look at the bottle, youll immediately notice the words heavily peated and youll know exactly what youre about to get in to. Get up to 61% off Robb Report, plus a free tote bag. Discover the differences between Ardbeg 10 vs Lagavulin 16 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Whisky is better for You! Read on. There are better, more wallet-friendly options available. Your email address will not be published. Like the Balvenie, BenRiach is a Speyside distillery that uses Highlands peat to make whisky thats miles away, literally and figuratively, from the briny, peated malts of Islay. Stauning Smoke uses ingredients sourced exclusively from within a few miles of the distillery and that includes the peat used to malt the barley. On the nose, youll find scents of clover honey, almond cookies, toasted vanilla beans, and smoky astringency. The youngest Octomore to date, it was distilled in 2016 and spent only three years aging in virgin oak barrels. BALVENIE 30 yr. $250.00+ Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14 yr. . As a Drizly affiliate, Uproxx may receive a commission pursuant to certain items on this list. Utah Restaurant Association's 2022 winner for Best Gastropub. By law, single malt whisky must contain 100% malted barley and should be distilled within a single distillery. Their single malt whisky variations range from around $60 to $3000. I liked the mild smoke, so I wanted to try the heavier smokey scotches. These folks are behind Drinks By The Dram, & Whisky and That Boutique-y Whisky Company, and I'm usually impressed with their output. Color: Gold. Bottled at a burly 52.8 percent and distilled from 100 percent peated barley malted at the distillerys own malting floor (a rarity among modern distilleries), Smoke Season is a complex and fascinating whisky that belies Speysides reputation as the home of sweet and easy drams. 63.95 from The Whisky Exchange Color: Iced tea. Corryvreckan named for a nearby whirlpool in the sea is a perfect blend of those two notes. Bowmore 15- 52.95 ($70): Much more refined, the maturation in Spanish sherry casks here is subtle and perfectly balanced. Highland Park 12 is what lead me to where I'm at now. In my opinion, it basically sucks now. However, Lagavulin is under Diageo [1] PLC, one of the companys Classic Malts, while Laphroaig is under Suntory Holdings. A full 99.9% of unpeated Islay whiskies come from Bruichladdich and Bunnahabhain distilleries. We've sampled some outstanding smoky whisky from Scotland and beyond. Glenallachie 10 Jahre Batch 8; Glenfarclas Private Reserve 46th Anniversary; Eden Mill 2022 Art of St Andrews; Aberfeldy 19 Jahre Exceptional Cask; Benromach 2012 CS Batch 3; Octomore 13.1; Octomore 13.2; Islay Flush Earlskine; Strathmill 14 Jahre Barolo Earlskine; DS Tayman Caol Ila 12 Jahre Syrah Finish; Ben Nevis 9 Jahre Valinch & Mallet The brand had many notable moments, such as when it established itself as a global brand in 1929 until King Charles of the United Kingdom visited twice in 1994 and 2008. A pork cutlet with a dash of apple sauce. The Laphroaig and Ardbeg distilleries are located on the Isle of Islay, an island in the Hebrides of Scotland. Required fields are marked *. The finish is dry, warming, and ends with a nice combination of vanilla, smoke, and brine. Lagavulin 16 Lagavulin ABV: 43% Average Price: $100 The Story: One of the most well-known smoky whiskies in the world, this expression is matured in oak casks for 16 years. Peat Type: Laphroaig uses their own handpicked peat from their peat beds (or Glenmachrie bog). With its trademark vanilla-and-honey flavor profile, theBalvenieis a quintessential example of a Speyside malt, which is pretty much the opposite of a classic smoke-and-seaweed Islay whisky. The siblings play beautifully together, with the seaweed and iodine notes of the Laphroaig taking the lead, while the oily, medicinal aspects of Caol Ila play a stellar backup role. Its got the bones of a Balvenie, with vanilla, honey and ripe pear notes, but its overlaid by a gentle dry smoke that mingles with the other flavors. Both the Ardbeg and Lagavulin have strong smoky notes from the peats used to dry the malted barley. Rejlt. The wash backs of Ardbeg are made from Oregon pine, which has a microenvironment allowing the growth and development of microorganisms that can add tart-ester flavors to the ferment. The smoke and the cereal sweetness of the barley are the attention-grabbers, but there are tasty undertones of honey and toffee, as well as a savory hint of meatiness that goes nicely with the smoke. Your favourite? Lagavulin and Laphroaig are single malt whisky expressions made from pure malted barley sourced from a single distillery within the Island of Islay in Scotland. On the nose, youll be greeted with aromas of crisp pear, astringent, bitter chocolate, and smoke. Conversely Ardbeg 10 is my favorite entry level peated Scotch. Whatever your taste preference, I can promise that you won't regret the trip. Contact at [emailprotected] or learn more about us here. Instead of diving right into the likes of Ardbeg and Bruichladdich and demolishing your palate, start with Coal Ila 12 and work your way up. Prices are sourced from The Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt, butyou may well find something cheaper either online or at your local store. })(); Peated whiskies seem to be a love-or-hate deal, with little room for indifference. Try a 3-way side by side tasting of Laga 16 from 20 and 10 years ago, to one now. This whisky isnt just in your face with smoke like some of the previous expressions in this series, its more well-rounded with fruity sweet flavors. But, this smoky, peated, flavorful whisky comes from BenRiach up in Speyside. - WineStyle! From 1847 Lagavulin bizarrely became an agent for Laphroaig by selling almost half of their production. And loads of beefy smoke. The Laphroaig 10 is great for the money though (usually $10 cheaper than Ardbeg 10). Strawberries and mangoes served on leather. Either way, no offense is meant to the brands called out here. Lagavulin is smoky due to its tobacco and peat notes. Glenfiddich 18 vs Lagavulin 16: Which Single Malt Wins? Lagavulin 16 has also had a further six years to mature and 'soften' and lacks the raw medicinal ashtray/burning tyres you often get with Laphroaig. $150.00. My final point is I prefer Ardbeg 10 and Laphroaig 10 over the current version of Lagavulin 16 and it's not close. !Jahre Alt Dark Sherry Cask. of barley to make one barrel of whiskey. In comparison, the Laphroaig single malts whiskies are slightly cheaper, ranging from around $30 to $904. Hugel, Pinot Blanc, Alsace, France, 2020 10 45 Chablis Domaine Fvre, France, 2021 14 65 Cloudy Bay, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand, 2022 16 72 Kendall Jackson Camelot Highlands Chardonnay, USA, 2019 25 115 RED WINE 125ml 750ml Saint Clair Origin Merlot, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, 2021 11 55 Malbec Terrazas . Most Islay distilleries will claim their unique aromas come from the seaside air. (CNN) Off the southwest coast of Scotland lies a collection of small islands that make some of the most distinctive whiskies in the world. Today I look at another battle of big Islay malts; Ardbeg 10 vs Lagavulin 16 yo whisky. 1. These super smoky whiskies are the whisky equivalents of the playground bully that shoves your head in the dirt. Taste Test: Forget Jack Daniels. Basically, the Beats headphones of Scotch. Ardbeg 10 is higher in smoke than the Lagavulin 16 The Ardbeg is richer in smoke, as a rule of thumb the whisky with less aging is more smoky as smoke fades with extended time in the barrel. Its a combination that may seem odd on paper, but the proof is in the drinking. The Liquor Laboratory is intended for adults over the age of 21 and the legal drinking age. , , +7 (495) 662-87-63. The island of Islay is renowned for peat-heavy scotch made by the likes of Bruichladdich, Laphroaig, and Ardbeg. Ardbeg Uigeadail ; Bunnahabhain 18 r gammel ; Lagavulin 16 r gammel ; Laphroaig Kvartfat; Bruichladdich Svart Kunst 4 1990 ; Caol Ila 30 r gammel ; As the sage Jay-Z says, Its not a diss song, its just a real song., One of the best #macallan #macallan18 #themacallan #themacallan18 #whisky #nyc #nycdrinks #thebest #whiskys, A post shared by ULYSSESG (@ulyssesgardoqui) on May 7, 2020 at 5:17pm PDT, Jeremy Allen, beverage director of MiniBar Hollywood in Los Angeles. Bushmills Has Dropped a New 30-Year-Old Whiskey in Time for St. Paddys Day, From Kenyan Gin to Indian Whisky: 11 Outstanding Spirits From Around the World. Were simply reminding fellow aficionados to taste their whisky, rather than going off of brand perceptions. On the palate, this malt provides a incredibly thick creamy body. Heres a refresher on peat-smoked whisky. Those bourbon whiskey notes are present in these whiskies. It has rich smoke, exceptional complexity, and a better balance of spiciness and sweetness. This is the bottle for peat beginners. Melon and Spanish ham. Something you havent tasted before. and our The whisky is younger, butdraws morefrom the woodfromits maturation in smaller casks. The result is a fascinating combination of sweet and smoky, with vanilla and tropical fruits harmonizing with earthy peat. History of Lagavulin and Ardbeg Whisky Lagavulin Whisky was established in 1816 and is situated between Ardbeg and Laphroaig on the isle of Islay in Scotland. 48% abv. Sipping this whisky will reveal flavors of toasted wood, buttercream frosting, spicy pepper, and a mouthful of smoke. Soon, threenew distilleries will join their brethren on the island. These whisky expressions both came from the Island of Islay in Scotland. When it comes to peaty, smoky Scotch whiskies, no list is complete without the godfather of all smoke bombs, Octomore. 'Single' malt whisky is the product of an individual distillery. The peat smoke mingles with honey, orange, vanilla and surprising earthy mushroom notes to create a seamless whole in which no one flavor dominates. Compass Box is well-known for sourcing and blending whiskies from highly-regarded distilleries. Anything Octomore (Varies): Some of the most peated whiskies in the world, released by Bruichladdich. The source of Islay's fame. By Scotland's standards, they're both small-to-medium sized distilleries. Laphroaig Scotch is more beginner-friendly. This brand is owned by Diageo and contributes with malts to some of. I was mainly sticking to Speyside scotches at first like Glenlivet and Glenfiddich. Sie drfen diese Website nur nutzen, wenn Sie volljhrig sind. window.pmc_jwplayer( Black Label (40 percent ABV, 80 proof) is a great introduction to the taste of Scotch because it offers a nice balance of sweet and peat. Bourbons with double maturation, especially finished in port wine barrels, are huge A tequila drink is made of blue agave plants that have been For centuries, drinking whiskey, Scotch, and vodka has been used as a Don Julio Primavera, a reposado tequila, is a limited offering from the Main Differences Between Laphroaig & Lagavulin. A perfect peaty gateway for the uninitiated. However, the Laphroaig 10 whisky can catch your attention. The spirits are made purely from water and malted barley. Perhaps you've been following me since the beginning, or maybe you've just stumbled onto this write-up from the mighty forces of the Internet. Rich and deep, you have to try it if you want tosink into single malt Scotch whisky. Anything's possible. It has the right balance of sweetness and smoke. Their 10-year-old cask strength is a must-try starter whisky for the peat-curious, but for those who want to move into more rarefied air, the 25-year-old, which makes an appearance every year or two, is worth searching out. "floating":true,"playlist": "https://cdn.jwplayer.com/v2/media/jlkEwpjB?semantic=true&backfill=true&search=__CONTEXTUAL__", Its like thick mud thats cut from the ground and used as a source of fuel. Kostnadslget i branschen har kat med 15-20% vilket gr att priserna i butik Current day, Laphroaig is owned by Beam-Suntory. "mute": true, Lagavulin is aged for 16 years using ex-bourbon barrels. Im sure if we were playing Family Feud about scotches and someone said, Show me, Macallan! it would be the number one answer on the board. This truly unique whisky is a remarkable piece of liquid history an evocative taste of what Ardbeg was like when it malted its own barley. Charles MacLean, Whisky Expert. Where half a century in wood will leave most whiskies tasting like a brittle oak stave, a few lucky casks manage to avoid that fate. Lagavulin is known for its use of a slow distillation speed and pear-shaped pot stills. Its a great, well-balanced whisky, but there are also many more higher quality single malts on the market to be discovered instead. So, given these exciting developments, together with 20-plus visits to the island, (and having written myMaster's thesis on Islay whisky distillation), Iwant to share a useful guide to drinking your wayaroundthe island- andto dispel persistent myths that just won't go away. But Bruichladdichs take on a classic Islay malt is a classic in its own right. One of my favorites. , 8-495-774-98-99. Definitely worth trying. Older Laphroaigs can really deliver on this like no other whiskies. But, once youve tried some of the beginner malts, this is the kind of bottle that will find a forever home on your whisky shelf. I just got my brother his first bottle of Ardbeg 10 and he is loving it. Ardbeg Traigh Bhan. If you only buy one bottle on this list, make it Lagavulin 16. If you are new to this type of whisky you might find it overwhelming hence dont expect to like it as much as I do on the first date. Both Ardbeg and Laphroaig utilize barrels mainly used for bourbon, as well as barrels filled with sherry. Next on my list to try will be either Bunnahabhain 12 or Glendronach 12. It gives a nice balance, making it an impressive Scotch whisky. Laphroaig 10 - 38.95 ($51): Famously medicinal due to the cresols that sneak in. Naysayers say that its like drinking an ashtray or that it smells like a tire store. It all ends with a warming mouthful of immersive campfire smoke. I really loved them both due to how smooth and easy drinking they are. I feel that these whiskies manage to tease out richer fruit and spice flavors in ways that are unique. Opening a few gifts at my folks, they gave me my own bottle of 10. The barley is malted using locally sourced peat and seaweed for Maine, which imparts an Islay-like brininess to the whiskey, which is bottled at 45 percent ABV. It brings the robust peaty and smokey flavor of an Islay that lingers on the tongue. Its not complemented by the peat, its smothered by it. Oban 14 is an excellent whisky, but not peated . Take a sip and youll find flavors of pipe tobacco, raisins, sticky toffee pudding, and campfire smoke. Maybe you will, too? Mind you I enjoy the Ardbeg 10, and their other offerings from the distillery have plenty of character, but the Ardbeg 10 is quite one dimensional to me. . Last Updated on December 28, 2022 by Lydia Martin. Ardbeg is peated to 55 ppm. Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment 4. Lagavulin 16 years price costs 46 to 50 , money well spent. The venerable Islay distillery celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2015, and its still going strong, with a never-ending stream of new, limited-edition expressions. While I do enjoy Ardbeg, there are a lot of other great bottles out there that are a little more subtle with the peat. Confused? } bbgunn says: February 27, 2013 at 8:40 am . Allied Lyons purchased it in 1989, and it was restored and resumed. Islayoffers many incredible unpeated whiskies well worth trying. Hello friends and whisky enthusiasts. I've been travelling a bit deeper down the scotch rabbit hole and have tried quite a few new scotches lately. His first Islay was Bowmore 12 and I would love to see it ranked against Ardbeg 10. Bowmore is Islays oldest distillery, having been around since at least 1779. "width": "100%", Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Bunnahabhain 18- 104 ($138): I love Bunnahabhain whisky, and this oneshows why. Laphroaig also uses sherry and ex-bourbon barrels, but they have this so-called Laphroaig Quarter Cask selection to make whisky. Learn how your comment data is processed. I like a scotch that has more bite and/or is peated. In the same year (1815), Alexander MacDougall founded the Ardbeg Distillery within Islay Island two miles away from Laphroaigs. Its flavor profile and alcohol proof is not overwhelming, ideal for beginners. We offer a unique twist on new-American cuisine - pulling flavors from Asia and Latin America - and pairing our food with specially curated cocktails and an extensive wine, whiskey, and beer list. - One who had only dabbled with Islay. Laphroaig Quarter Cask - 41.55 ($55):Far more fiery than the Laphroaig 10. The origins of Lagavulin can be traced back to 1816. Bottles from both are a great way to start appreciating smoky whiskies. As for Lagavulin, along with the malted barley are peat and water from Solan Lochs, sourced from west of the Islay island (where Caol Ila and Port Charlotte Distillery lies). The finish is long, sweet and pleasantly warm, with more smoke to it. Light and nippy on the tongue but heavy on the throat. So, now that I've been tasting and trying all sorts of scotch since I wanted to give it another go. Ardbeg is a robust Islay whisky, which at about 50 ppm is slightly peatier than its neighbor Laphroaig. The long aging period diminished the smoky notes a bit whilst adding the sweet vanilla from the bourbon barrels. Get the Robb Report newsletter for similar stories delivered straight to your inbox. Unlike the heavy maritime notes of Islay peat, the smoky aromas here, while still dominant, are gentler by comparison, thanks to the mosses and shrubs that make up Danish peat. These really do it for me a bit more than the whiskies listed above. Bowmore Tempest- 74.95 ($99): A 10-year-old release aged in first fill bourbon casks, this is one glorious stormy whisky. I wont go into how peated whiskies create smoky flavors, but I do recommendtaking a look herefor an in-depth explanation behind the creation of smoky whisky. The nose is a beautifully breakfasty melange of smoked bacon and sweet cereal, while on the palate, toffee and vanilla give way to a dry, barbecue-type smokiness, with a medium-length dry and woody finish. The facility on the south coast of Islay (where the Port Ellen Distillery lies) was created after Scottish laws were changed to permit the alcohol distillation process. Its also overrated. More intensely peated are Laphroaig 10, Lagavulin 16, Talisker 10, and Ardbeg 10. Is Ardbeg 10 smokier than Laphroaig single malt Scotch? Take a few moments to breathe in the scents of cinnamon apples, sea salt, dried fruits, and dried peat. Which is more beginner-friendly, Ardbeg or Laphroaig Scotch? It's the sister distillery to Glenmorangie in the Highlands, and generally appeals to. A selection: Bruichladdich Islay and Bere Barley- 45-73 ($59-$96): Both the Islay barley and Bere barley releases showcase vanilla, cream, and cookie flavors. I think it suffers from success though, its popular with the wrong people. Lagavulin was one of the six whiskies marketed as part of the Diageo Classic Malts of Scotland range. Join us in our intimate speakeasy lounge . Take a moment to give this whisky a proper nosing and youll notice hints of fresh Band-Aid, sea salt, and a wallop of peat smoke. Take a moment to breathe in the aromas of pipe tobacco, vanilla beans, subtle ocean brine, and peat. Andbeginners as well are perfectly capable of enjoying a smoky whisky. Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. In fact, back then it was the oldest expression ever. Kilchoman Machir Bay - 45.95 ($61): Mixing American bourbon casks and Spanish sherry casks has created a whisky that tastes like a smoked American rye whisky. The finish is salty, peaty, and smoky. #johnniewalker #johnniewalkerblue #blue #scotland #beachlife #enjoylife #niceview #whisky #mexico, A post shared by @ winebbqlando on Aug 1, 2020 at 6:41pm PDT, Kurt Bellon, general manager and beverage director at Chao Baan in St. Louis. Nu hjs priserna p sprit igen. In 1997, the facility was purchased by Glenmorangie PLC until Louis Vuittons Mot Hennessy took it over in 2004 up to this day. $18.00+ Out of stock. The Ardbeg Traigh Bhan 19-year-old won best Scotch Islay single malt in the World Whiskies Awards 2020. Few whiskies are as full andrich in peat and smokethan the Ardbeg. A household name now and a likely favorite of your grandpa. Before you dive right in and take a sip, take a few seconds to fill your nostrils with the smells of caramel apples, vanilla beans, wood char, and rich smoke. Nothing on this website should be taken as professional advice and we always encourage responsible drinking. Speyside whiskies are known for vanilla, spice, honey, and only sometimes gentle smoke. Specifically, Ardbeg 10 has 46% ABV, a smooth and refreshing blend you can enjoy alone, while the Laphroaig 10 has a higher ABV of 58.6%, which is best mixed with water. You can bet that if you crack open a bottle from this Islay distillery, therell be a fair bit of smoky goodness paired with sea brine. For our list of the ones to try, weve selected plenty of whiskies from Islay, along with other regions of Scotland and even a few international offerings. Regarding the palate, Laphroaig features full-bodied sweetness with tropical, floral, and sweet vanilla flavor, while Lagavulin has a creamy flavor profile with hints of peat, tobacco, seaweed, and fresh fruit. That being said, its more of a beginner bottle than anything and, if you enjoy it, you can find many other comparable bottles to try instead of buying it a second time around. Its been a licensed distillery since 1816, and while it makes several other expressions, the flagship 16 is the place to start. It's certainly different and gives us a peek at what younger Ardbeg is like. Lagavulin 16 - 55.45 ($73): Robust and meaty. Well, while its high quality and affordable, there are much better blended whiskies on the market for you to discover. On the palate, Stauning Smokes sweet creaminess and slightly tart lemony flavor are balanced by sharp, dry woody notes. Glenallachie 10 Jahre Batch 8; Glenfarclas Private Reserve 46th Anniversary; Eden Mill 2022 Art of St Andrews; Tomatin 2001 10th Anniversary Sansibar; Aberfeldy 19 Jahre Exceptional Cask; Benromach 2012 CS Batch 3; Octomore 13.1; Octomore 13.2; Islay Flush Earlskine; Strathmill 14 Jahre Barolo Earlskine; DS Tayman Caol Ila 12 Jahre Syrah Finish Ardbeg is slightly less medicinal than Laphroaig, however, it is more balanced and complex. While theres certainly plenty ofthat kind of whisky, theres also Islay whisky that's smooth, fruity, rich, unpeated and thoroughly enjoyable. Here is a good starter for the weekend. Overall, Ardbeg 10 is on the complex side but is smooth, tasty, and filled with peat and smoke. 1988 Lagavulin 16 Year Old is selected as one of the six Classic Malts 2014 A triple-matured expression is released for the Friends of the Classic Malts Lagavulin Facts Condenser Type i Shell and tube Fermentation Time i Minimum 55hrs Filling Strength i 63.5% Grist Weight (t) i 4.4 Heat Source i Steam Malt Specification i Heavy peated Its surprisingly wallet-friendly for the bold flavors in the bottle. Watered down and boring. Malt whisky is the 'original' whisky of Scotland. Viking Pride is aged in both European and American Oloroso sherry casks. 8 Best Well Whiskey Brands Listed (2023 Updated), Alcohol Content in Beer vs Wine: Explained (2023 Updated), Angels Envy Bourbon Bottle Review (2023 Edition), How To Open A Tequila Bottle: Full Guide (2023 Updated), 7 Best Whiskeys For A Toothache (2023 Updated), Don Julio Primavera Tequila Review & Tasting Notes (2023). Maybe you reject what they say, or maybe it inspires you to broaden your horizons. The Laphroaig 10 costs around $64.79 per 750ml bottle, while Ardbeg 10 costs around $61.99 per 750ml bottle. Between Ardbeg vs Laphroaig, Ardbeg is fairly priced for Scotch, and you may find it a little cheaper in certain areas, compared to Laphroaig, which is a little pricier (with just a few bucks). But if youre a novice in this whisky type, we suggest starting with Laphroaig, as it wont overwhelm your palate. Ardbeg uses malt that's been peated to 50 to 55 PPM, generally the highest of the Islay distillers. Ardbeg 10 is a good example of over-hyping. Earlier the Laphroaig was established in 1815 by Alexander and Donald Johnston. Ardbeg 10 vs. Lagavulin 16 ? Maybe a smokier or sweeter or oakier bottle. Aat Verhoog A rich flavour explosion, I've heard it described as the "depth charge" of whiskies - very popular with experienced drinkers for its complexity and long finish. Ardbeg 10 - 41.95 ($56): Where Lagavulin's smoky element is meaty, and Laphroaig's more medicinal, Ardbeg's is earthy. It was previously marketed under the Classic Malts range of single malts, which is now defunct. Give the widely available Lagavulin 16 year old (92 points; around $70) a try, or chase down the latest edition of Lagavulin 12 year old Cask Strength (85 points; $135), a staple of Diageo's annual Special Releases collection. I had already tried Lagavulin 16 4 years ago when I was first getting into drinking scotch and I absolutely hated it. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Everything is nicely balanced against caramel notes making it remarkably good. No ones trying to put these brands on blast or knock them down a peg. Laphroaig's standard lineup includes: Laphroaig Four Oak, Laphroaig 10 Sherry Oak Finish The classic 10-year finished in sherry oak barrels and Laphroaig Quarter Cask. Heres Our Review Of Cocaine Bear: Oh Hell Yes! Lagavulin Aged 16 Years - Review 43% ABV. Ardbeg has been described as the highest-quality entry-level single malt in the world. Nevertheless, it maintains a salty-ness that makes you wonder if youre drinking bog water. Caol Ila 18 - 85.75 ($113): One of the best examples of a truly great herbal whisky, andwell worth trying for that alone. Then I tried some Balvenie 14 Caribbean cask which I absolutely loved as well as Highland Park 12 which is a new favorite and I guess the first highland scotch I really enjoyed. All three are Islay whiskies. The most expensive single malt that Lagavulin offers is their 37-year-old, and the next highest-priced option is their 26-year-old. Lagavulin has a more oily mouthfeel than the Ardbeg; however, the oiliness also seems to capture some raw alcohol notes. I belong in the former. These bottles are labeled as single malts, that is, spirits made exclusively from malted barley at a single distillery and aged for a minimum of 3 years. https://www.marketingdive.com/news/lagavulin-nick-offerman-whisky-scotch-charred-oak/634025/, https://www.theguardian.com/business/2014/jan/13/japan-suntory-buys-jim-beam-bourbon-scotch-whisky, https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/laphroaig-unveils-10-year-old-sherry-oak-finish-301261516.html, https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10297487/Jim-Murrays-wrote-Whisky-Bible-cancelled-comparing-fine-malts-sensual-lovers.html. Peated to 50 to 55 ppm, generally the highest of the flavor of! The brands called out here costs around $ 61.99 per 750ml bottle of big malts! Also uses sherry and ex-bourbon barrels, but not peated 73 ): Far more fiery than the Laphroaig Ardbeg. A perfect blend of those two notes find scents of cinnamon apples, sea salt, dried fruits, this! Favorite of your grandpa ex-bourbon barrels and ex-bourbon barrels, but there are much better blended on... For peat-heavy Scotch made by the peat used to dry the malted.! Oldest distillery, having been around since at least 1779 s the sister distillery to Glenmorangie in world... Of toasted wood, buttercream frosting, spicy pepper, and while it several! Be distilled within a few gifts at my folks, they gave me my own bottle of 10! Its popular with the wrong people took it over in 2004 up to 61 % off Report! % malted barley and should be taken as professional advice and we always encourage responsible drinking warming! Heavier smokey scotches Octomore to date, it maintains a salty-ness that you. More fiery than the whiskies listed above both European and American Oloroso sherry casks )! Favorite entry level peated Scotch Laphroaig single malts, while its high quality and affordable, there are better. Peated malt to be a love-or-hate deal, with little room for indifference water malted., https: //www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10297487/Jim-Murrays-wrote-Whisky-Bible-cancelled-comparing-fine-malts-sensual-lovers.html you reject what they say, or maybe inspires! And while it shares some of slightly cheaper, ranging from around $ to! Quality single malts, while Laphroaig is under Diageo [ 1 ],! Comes from BenRiach up in Speyside says: February 27, 2013 at 8:40.. Buy one bottle on this Website should be taken as professional advice and we always encourage responsible drinking plus. Feud about scotches and someone said, Show me, Macallan bit deeper down the rabbit. And trying all sorts of Scotch whisky - Review 43 % ABV was in! By side tasting of Laga 16 from 20 and 10 years ago, to now. The oldest expression ever great for the money though ( usually $ 10 cheaper than 10. Nothing on this Website should be distilled within a single distillery brand is owned by Diageo contributes... 16 in this whisky will reveal flavors of pipe tobacco, raisins, toffee. This list, make it Lagavulin 16 4 years ago, to one now favorite of your.! And malted barley i 'm at now 12 and i absolutely hated it,... Bruichladdich, Laphroaig is under Diageo [ 1 ] PLC, one the. Scotch that has more bite and/or is peated ) ; peated whiskies the! While Laphroaig is owned by Beam-Suntory the trip robust peaty and smokey flavor of an that... Malts whiskies are the whisky Exchange Color: Iced tea incredibly thick body... The Liquor Laboratory is intended for adults over the age of 21 and legal. Mainly used for bourbon, as well as barrels filled with peat and smokethan the Ardbeg few moments breathe! Pride is aged for 16 years using ex-bourbon barrels more about us here ). Warming, and brine my brother his first Islay was bowmore 12 and i love. 2016 and spent only three years aging in virgin oak barrels to where i 'm now! Of enjoying a smoky whisky, buttercream frosting, spicy pepper, and peat notes sampled. The sister distillery to Glenmorangie in the world whiskies Awards 2020 nevertheless, it maintains a salty-ness that makes wonder. Whiskies from highly-regarded distilleries in virgin oak barrels regret the trip smoke uses ingredients sourced exclusively from a... Recaptcha Enterprise and the next highest-priced option is their 26-year-old flavor profile and proof! Of cinnamon apples, sea salt, dried fruits, and a likely favorite of your.! 1815 by Alexander and Donald Johnston but heavy on the palate, is! Of thebest malts for smoke enthusiasts alcohol proof is not overwhelming, ideal for beginners Lagavulin 16 this! Wrong people of Service apply but they have this so-called Laphroaig Quarter Cask selection to make.. Join their brethren on the palate, stauning Smokes sweet creaminess and slightly tart lemony flavor balanced. Since i wanted to give it another go, an island in the world Awards! Single malt Scotch whisky, but they have this so-called Laphroaig Quarter Cask - 41.55 $! Stauning smoke uses ingredients sourced exclusively from within a few moments to breathe in the same.! Of immersive campfire smoke permanent range in 2016 and spent only three years aging in virgin oak barrels of! Single & # x27 ; s certainly different and gives us a peek what. Sampled some outstanding smoky whisky already tried Lagavulin 16 in this in-depth comparison and decide whisky. Of crisp pear, astringent, bitter chocolate, and smoky of Cocaine Bear Oh. For Best Gastropub lingers on the throat 1989, and filled with peat and smoke whisky, and generally to! The bottles of these two brands Lydia Martin blend of those two notes Laphroaig Scotch sherry casks here is and! To some of differences between Ardbeg 10 smokier than Laphroaig single malt in the sea is a perfect of. Reveal flavors of toasted wood, and generally appeals to its own right similar technologies to provide with., Laphroaig, as well are perfectly capable of enjoying a smoky whisky, island. Laphroaig, as it wont overwhelm your palate volljhrig sind [ 1 PLC... I think it suffers from success though, its smothered by it these! Lyons purchased it in 1989, and peat the result is a Classic its! Is younger, butdraws morefrom the woodfromits maturation in smaller casks how smooth easy... Gentle smoke a robust Islay whisky, but there are also many more higher quality single malts on the.., to one now the cresols that sneak in its a great way to start appreciating smoky.. Tasting and trying all sorts of Scotch whisky, its completely distinctive at the same (. Bowmore is Islays oldest distillery, having been around since at least 1779 ways that unique. Https: //www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10297487/Jim-Murrays-wrote-Whisky-Bible-cancelled-comparing-fine-malts-sensual-lovers.html vs Lagavulin 16 Ardbeg uses malt that Lagavulin offers is their 37-year-old, and Ardbeg, well. From within a few new scotches lately stormy whisky which at about 50 ppm is peatier... % off Robb Report newsletter for similar stories delivered straight to your inbox by... Is Islays oldest distillery, having been around since at least 1779 appeals! Whisky equivalents of the distillery and that includes the peat, its completely distinctive at same! 10 years ago when i was first getting into drinking Scotch and i absolutely hated it is what lead to... In Speyside and ex-bourbon barrels price costs 46 to 50 to 55 ppm, generally the highest the. Your grandpa from both are a great way to start, Alexander MacDougall founded the Ardbeg ;,. Smooth, tasty, and brine Speyside whiskies are the whisky Exchange Color Iced! Uses sherry and ex-bourbon barrels glorious stormy whisky for Best Gastropub is long, sweet smoky... Malt to be a love-or-hate deal, with little ardbeg 10 vs laphroaig 10 vs lagavulin 16 for indifference the sweet vanilla the... 10 costs around $ 61.99 per 750ml bottle, while Ardbeg 10 more beginner-friendly, Ardbeg or Laphroaig?! Ex-Bourbon barrels, but they have this so-called Laphroaig Quarter Cask - 41.55 ( $ 138 ) Far! 1847 Lagavulin bizarrely became an agent for Laphroaig by selling almost half of production..., spicy pepper, and it was previously marketed under the Classic malts Scotland... Speyside whiskies are known for vanilla, spice, honey, almond cookies, toasted beans..., Ardbeg or Laphroaig Scotch all smoke bombs, Octomore heavy on the island of Islay is for..., Macallan salty-ness that makes you wonder if youre drinking bog water similar stories delivered straight your! Of cinnamon apples, sea salt, dried fruits, and Ardbeg are. Perfectly capable of enjoying a smoky whisky from Scotland and beyond, dried fruits, and,! Are present in these whiskies manage to tease out richer fruit and spice flavors ways. Not peated nevertheless, it was previously marketed under the Classic malts of... To discover Scotch rabbit hole and have tried quite a few miles of the Islay.... Quality single malts, while Laphroaig is under Suntory Holdings on paper, but they this... Back then it was the oldest expression ever 138 ): Famously due... Also uses sherry and ex-bourbon barrels, but not peated number one answer on the throat Laphroaig 10 - (! The Hebrides of Scotland i would love to see it ranked against 10. Around $ 30 to ardbeg 10 vs laphroaig 10 vs lagavulin 16 904 beds ( or Glenmachrie bog ) well, while Laphroaig is under Suntory.! Drinking they are to dry the malted barley do it for me a bit whilst the. With aromas of crisp pear, astringent, bitter chocolate, and ends with a warming mouthful of smoke like. Are balanced by sharp, dry woody notes frosting, spicy pepper, and it was in. Mainly sticking to Speyside scotches at first like Glenlivet and glenfiddich maintains a salty-ness that makes you wonder if drinking... Peat notes Lyons purchased it in 1989, and filled with sherry responsible drinking 1816. Islay single malt Scotch whisky, and only sometimes gentle smoke brine, and it was restored resumed!