A new batch of Malts of Scotland releases has already been shipped, but there’s one dram I’d like to review from the previous round: a Laphroaig 1996 that was recently awarded a “Premium Thumbs Up award” in the Malt Maniacs Awards 2012.

Laphroaig 16 yo 1996 (56,1%, Malts of Scotland 2012, ref. 12041, 240 btl.)

Nose: sweet and peppery, not too bold but with an above average medicinal side. Iodine, flinty notes and camphor. Leather. Rhubarb sweet & sour. Blood oranges. Caramelized apples. Slightly vinous and sharp at times though. Mouth: sweet peat with dried fruits. Oranges. Nougat. Cinnamon. Nicely chocolaty as well. More rounded than on the nose, more jammy. Still quite peppery though, with a maritime edge. Liquorice. Finish: more of the same. Red apple and pepper with a smoky end.

Sherried Laphroaig, rarely a deception. Very good although I don’t think it’s particularly exceptional compared to similar releases (there aren’t that many though, that’s for sure). Around € 100 but some retailers will add a premium just because it won an award.

Score: 88/100