You all know Longrow is the double distilled, peated single malt from Springbank distillery. It’s been a while since I tried the 2011 edition, so let’s try the latest version.
Longrow 18 yo
(46%, OB 2014)
Longrow 18 yoNose: dry cigar ashes, with hints of flax and wet limestone. Some fruity notes (apples, maybe papaya) but they are a bit hidden behind a greasy / oily layer. A hint of vanilla. Tobacco leaves. Some wet earth too.
Mouth: sweeter and more syrupy than expected, with stewed apples, plums and a hint of vanilla custard. Walnut cake. An uncommon combination with the mineral notes and kippers, but it works well. Peppery notes, a light meaty touch and deep soot underneath. Fades on waxy notes.
Finish: long, peaty and ashy, with a leathery dryness but sweet berries as well.
Longrow 18yo is still a unique whisky, a combination of oldskool austerity and attractive rounder notes. Not easy, but very interesting. Limited but still available: around € 125.
Score: 91/100