Professional reviews
Serge Valentin (92)
Just like the latest Black Bowmore, this one is a vatting of five oloroso sherry casks.
COLOUR
Deep amber with brownish hues.
NOSE
A magnificent sherry and peat combo! Exceptional tarry notes, ‘good’ sulphur (no cooked eggs), very beefy as well, developing on an amazing number of aromas coming out in waves. At random, we have superb camphory and resinous notes, sea water and seaweed, fresh mint and verbena, soy and plum sauces, coffee and toffee, slightly burnt caramel, brandy-soaked prunes, oranges, hints of hare belly or well-hung pheasant, caramelised wine sauce, hints of old rancio, strong Dutch liquorice, chocolate... Yes, what a bunch. Truly exceptional to be honest. And god knows I’d have loved to be able to bash this one because of its insane price... No luck, it is exceptional indeed, even if it wanes a wee bit after fifteen minutes or so.
MOUTH
What a big, fat, oily, hugely concentrated attack! Did they cook it for hours or what? Amazingly thick indeed, yet not inelegant at all, all on bitter chocolate, prunes and peat (no big bold peat, that is), with also loads of spices starting to storm your palate. Cinnamon, cloves, heavy liquorice, paprika... Also espresso coffee, armagnac (I know people who would think this is a great old cask strength armagnac). Some kinds of ‘tannins’ like in unstemmed grape brandy, certainly pleasant here even if they are quite drying. Grape pips. Orange liqueur. Again, how, fat, how thick, how bold!.
FINISH
Long, very drying but not unpleasantly so, mostly on something like orange liqueur in which you’d have let liquorice and all kinds of roots infuse. Maybe even ginseng. Oh, and there’s quite some old plum brandy in the aftertaste... Well, this is not for everyone, and it’s not only because of its frankly over the top price tag (around 680 euros – no typo). I found the 1974 from two years ago to be better balanced and more elegant, but this incredible Hulk of a Laphroaig sure is a great sherried Islayer. But again, you really have to like your whisky black. No wonder they chose an unusual (and very Cadenheadian) black label for it.
BOW (97)
Laphroaig 27 Years Old Friends of Laphroaig 2007 Edition: A Whisky Gem Worth Celebrating
The Laphroaig 27 Years Old Friends of Laphroaig 2007 Edition stands as a testament to the legacy and excellence of this beloved Islay distillery. Distilled in 1980 and bottled in 2007 exclusively for the Friends of Laphroaig Series, this limited edition release is a true gem for whisky enthusiasts. With only 94 bottles produced, each one individually numbered, the bottle at hand proudly bears the number 44, adding a sense of exclusivity and rarity to its allure. Matured in Oloroso Sherry casks, this expression offers a remarkable sensory experience that has garnered high praise from whisky connoisseurs worldwide.
The Art of Aging
The journey of 27 years of maturation has transformed this Laphroaig into a whisky of unparalleled depth and complexity. The spirit has gracefully evolved over time, absorbing the rich flavors and nuances from the carefully selected Oloroso Sherry casks. The marriage between the robust Laphroaig spirit and the influence of the Sherry casks has resulted in a harmonious fusion that captivates the senses.
A Symphony of Flavors
Upon nosing, the Laphroaig 27 Years Old Friends of Laphroaig 2007 Edition reveals a captivating aroma of peat smoke, intertwined with the sweetness of dried fruits and a subtle hint of oak. As the whisky coats the palate, a symphony of flavors unfolds. The signature Laphroaig peat smoke takes center stage, accompanied by a delightful interplay of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a gentle touch of maritime saltiness. The influence of the Oloroso Sherry casks becomes apparent with notes of rich dried fruits, warm spices, and a hint of toffee, adding depth and complexity to the experience.
A Masterpiece for Collectors
The limited nature of the Laphroaig 27 Years Old Friends of Laphroaig 2007 Edition makes it a prized possession for whisky collectors and enthusiasts. With only 94 bottles in existence, each one is a unique piece of whisky history. The bottle number 44 holds a special place among this exclusive series, embodying the passion and dedication of Laphroaig's loyal following. Its rarity, combined with the exceptional quality of the whisky within, elevates it to the status of a true collector's item.
One of the Finest Laphroaigs
In the realm of Laphroaig expressions, the 27 Years Old Friends of Laphroaig 2007 Edition stands out as a shining star. Its remarkable depth of flavor, the result of three decades of maturation, showcases the distillery's commitment to craftsmanship and tradition. The marriage of peat smoke and the influence of Oloroso Sherry casks creates a whisky that is both bold and refined, satisfying the palates of discerning whisky enthusiasts. Many consider this release to be one of the finest Laphroaig expressions ever made, a testament to the distillery's legacy and its ability to produce exceptional whiskies.
Conclusion
The Laphroaig 27 Years Old Friends of Laphroaig 2007 Edition is a whisky to be cherished and celebrated. Its rarity, combined with the exceptional craftsmanship and the rich tapestry of flavors, make it a true gem in the world of whisky. Whether enjoyed by collectors, whisky connoisseurs, or those seeking a moment of indulgence, this limited edition release offers a journey through time and a tribute to the excellence of Laphroaig
's craftsmanship. Raise a glass and savor the magnificence of this extraordinary whisky, a testament to the artistry of Laphroaig.
