Scotch

Scotch Whisky Review: Laphroaig 15 Year Old 1980s

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Scotch Whisky Review: Laphroaig 15 Year Old 1980s

This Laphroaig 15 Year Old was bottled in the 1980s. How does it hold up today? Jeff Whisky reviews.

by Pete "Jeff Whisky" Jeffery
February 16, 2025

Jeff, a UK-based whisky reviewer with a lighthearted approach.

Tasting Notes:

About:

The popular 15 year old expression was sadly removed from the core range line up in 2009, with this bottle being an pre-royal warrant released in the 1980s.

Appearance:

Quite a deep almost tawny colour with a thinner viscosity on the glass.

Nose:

A surprisingly soft and subtle nose with quite a sweet edge like green jelly babies. There is an earthy and slightly vegetable forward note with a tiny hint of peat and brine.

Palate:

I was expecting to find the predominant peat found in most modern Laphroaig releases only to be surprised with a more cooked cabbage, gentler hint of minerally smoke. A thin texture which is dangerously easy to sip away with a unique mix of rubber and ripe fruits.

Finish:

After the initial hit of flavour the finish is light and evaporates quickly leaving almost a pipe tobacco after taste.

Comments:

A surprisingly elegant and softly smoked whisky where the footprint of today’s Laphroaig can still be found. An interesting dive into single malts of the past with plenty of pleasant peat to be found.

Pete "Jeff Whisky" Jeffery

Based in the South West of the UK, Jeff brings an irreverent and laid-back approach to whisky reviewing, dispelling any notions of snobbery surrounding the spirit. With a genuine enthusiasm for exceptional drams, he often embraces the whimsical side of whisky. Jeff's tongue-in-cheek whisky content has earned him recognition in the Malt Whisky Yearbook, and he has contributed articles and reviews to numerous whisky platforms.

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