The opportunity to experience Laphroaig came to me via Christmas gift. One of my partners, knowing I was developing a penchant for Scotch whiskey, picked up a bottle of the stuff for our annual office holiday exchange. Upon receipt, I was especially excited about the gift because I had yet to sample a Scotch from Islay region of Scotland. These malts are known for their strength of flavor, smokiness, and salty seaweed peat flavor. Until then, my taste buds had yet to venture outside of the Highlands, home of my favorite Glenmorangie (Madeira Wood). I couldn’t wait to try it.
The next evening (having rested and sobered the palate) I poured an ounce or so into a glass with a few cubes of clean ice. While I waited for the ice to melt a little, I inhaled the aroma. Then, with lungs filled with smelling salts and surgical gauze, I partook in a liberal tasting. Now, I have nothing against campfire ashes, moldy barnacle-clad driftwood, or hospital strength disinfectant, I just don’t find it appealing from a consumption standpoint. Taste notwithstanding, there are a couple of interesting notes a la Cliff Claven that you may find more redeeming. First, Laphroaig was one of the only Scotches legally imported into the US during prohibition (and the best selling). Legend has it that it was assumed by authorities that nobody would partake of it sans medical necessity. Second, one of the builders of the distillery, Donald Johnston, died two days after falling into a vat of the partially made whiskey in 1847. So, I guess as bad as it is having Laphroaig inside of you, it is far worse to be inside of it. I believe this is why the mouth of whiskey bottles today is too narrow for a person to pass through. Anyway, I’m just a Scotch neophyte, so judge by your own taste buds. Just remember that at Christmas time, it truly is better to give than to receive.
I didnt like Laphroaig the first time either, in fact I almost gave away the bottle. A couple months later I gave it another shot and fell in love…try revisiting it down the road and you may be surprised that it has grown on you.
Also, IMHO peaty whiskys taste horrible cold. I find even at room temperature the taste is slightly off. I usually pour it into a glass, then cup my hands around it for 10-15 minutes, which warms it further.
Ah yes, the first time I tried Laphroaig I immediately expounded that it tasted like burnt rubber.
I still tell people that, but now I tell them with a smile.
Glenmorangie, too, is my favorite; but scotches are not women. One may keep as many friends as there is space in the cupboard.