Laphroaig Cairdeas

Second part of my review, (part 1 being Laphroaig 10 to provide a benchmark).

Looking forward to this - it will be a one-off experience of Cairdeas 2012 Origin :)

Without water..

On the nose at first I get a hint of zesty lemon. The peatiness is more subtle than the 10yo but complements the lemon nicely. Almonds too?

Cigar smoke dominates the palate but there's definitely a strong fresh citrus edge underlying this.

With a touch of water the peat is more pronounced on the nose with a mellower lemon edge. It's actually like a peatier-than-average Bowmore. I get a more orange flavoured palate now, like orange and lemon peel dragged through charcoal. I can also detect a hint of caramel too.

The finish is lingering cigar smoke with a bit of zest.

Delicious stuff - if there is such a thing as a subtle and calm Laphroaig then this is it.

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