Laphroaig
My houseguests left a little something when they left: a bottle of Laphroaig Quarter Cask. For those that don't know, it is a single malt scotch which is believed to be one of the more strongly tasting scotches. It's supposed to taste like peat. (Intentionally tasting like decaying vegetation) Additionally, it supposedly it tastes like scotch did 100 years ago.
At first I was apprehensive. The last time I tried Laphroaig I didn't like it, as it tasted like suffering. But that was not the Laphroaig Quarter Cask.
This time, it's not that bad, maybe it was my older palate. Maybe it was the whole 100 years ago thing. Maybe I like the taste of peat.
I'm glad Janice is asleep though. She doesn't like when I come to bed smelling like cigar. I can't imagine her reaction to "peat moss breath."
Comments
With respect to the peat taste.. its actually a kelp taste you are looking for. All single malts (at least in Scotland/Ireland) are peaty -- the Laphroaig difference is that storms throw seaweed onto the shore which forms part of the peat the water filters through. With a little water added you should be able to literally smell the sea.
Hopefully that helps :)
Haven't checked the blog in a while. Glad to read that you enjoyed the sea kelp booze. To be quite honest, I had no idea what I was buying, but it looked interesting. Figured there was no harm in trying something new. If there is any left, perhaps we can sample a little during our next scotch and cigar night.
Actually, this is how it is drunk in Scotland, mixed 50/50 with water. Ideally it should be the same water used to make the whisky; barring that any spring water will do.
Shhh.. Internet, don't tell Ryan that he can get Laphroaig anywhere. 



Posted by: Ryan Stewart at January 4, 2007 2:35 AM