Laphroaig Releases 2021 Càirdeas Single Malt Edition

Islay single malt whisky maker Laphroaig recently chose the virtual version of this summer’s Fèis Ìle Festival, on what they call “Laphroaig Day,” to announce the release its Càirdeas 2021 PX Edition, Pedro Ximenez Cask.

Every year, a limited-edition bottling from the Càirdeas series is crafted by John Campbell, Laphroaig’s distillery manager, to celebrate the Friends of Laphroaig. He started the group in 1994 for friends, fans and followers of Laphroaig to join from all over the world. And, he notes, Càirdeas means friendship.

The annual release of the Càirdeas series is a sought-after collectible among Laphroaig’s loyal fans.

The 2021 Càirdeas edition is tripled matured first in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, then quarter casks, and finally in European oak hogsheads containing PX sherry.

Each cask combines to create a complex expression, which is then bottled at cask strength to bring out the full, intricate flavors.

In total, 3,500 cases of Laphroaig Càirdeas 2021 were produced and made available for purchase in U.S. stores for a suggested retail price of $99.

Càirdeas 2021 PX Edition, Pedro Ximenez Cask official distiller’s tasting notes are below. It is suggested this whisky be served neat with a few drops of water.

• Nose: Medicinal, nutty, and sweet with notes of pine tar, strong almond and marzipan, hazelnut and praline character combined with candyfloss, stewed apple, and toffee but also cherries, gooseberries and cinnamon.
• Taste: Smoky and peaty with slightly ashy notes of cured ham and grilled bacon but also sweet and fruity flavors of Manuka honey, liquorice roots, but also cooked apples, malt and oak spices edging toward pencil shavings.
• Finish: Still hot and spicy, with a touch of sea salt and dried seaweed.