Last Updated on: 5th December 2023, 01:01 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Laphroaig 10 vs Laphroaig 16 in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Single Malt is better for You!
Written by: J Highland
Laphroaig 10 vs Laphroaig 16: Which is better?
| Whiskey | Laphroaig 10 | Lagavulin 16 |
| Nose | ✅ | |
| Body | ✅ | ✅ |
| Palate | ✅ | ✅ |
| Finish | ✅ | ✅ |
| Value | ✅ | ✅ |
The 16-year-old offers a more approachable drinking experience compared to its 10-year-old counterpart.
It is a refined and well-rounded whisky, with less pronounced smokiness, although it may have lost some of the distinctive character and rich medicinal notes that the 10-year-old is known for.
The nose of the Laphroaig 10-year-old can be described as unpleasant, with a rubber-like note and hints of Band-Aid.
However, despite its unconventional aroma, it delivers an exceptional drinking experience at an unbeatable price.
Laphroaig 10 is a challenging malt that may not immediately win you over.
It requires perseverance and an acquired taste to fully appreciate its unique qualities.
But if you’re willing to give it a chance, you will be rewarded with a highly satisfying and memorable dram.
Laphroaig 10
- Nose: Smoke, caramel, oak, coffee
- Palate: Charred oak, smoke, chocolate, honey, iodine
- Finish: Smoke, caramel
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Laphroaig Cask Strength
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Taste:
The aroma is not pleasant, as it showcases a distinct burnt rubber note alongside the briny scent of seaweed.
However, there are also hints of smoke, caramel, oak, and espresso coffee that add complexity to its profile.
On the palate, Laphroaig delivers a powerful punch of smoke and oak char at the forefront.
As the flavors develop, they surprise with remarkable sweetness, offering rich notes of vanilla, caramel, and chocolate.
The finish is long, dominated by the lingering smokiness and satisfying sweetness that is complemented by a distinct mineral quality reminiscent of seaweed.
Is it good?
Laphroaig 10 is undoubtedly bold and intense, showcasing its signature smoky character and unique tasting notes.
It may be a bit overwhelming for those new to this style of whisky.
Laphroaig 10 is a whisky that requires perseverance and an acquired taste to fully appreciate.
It demands a persistent drinker who is willing to explore its depths.
However, once you become acquainted with its distinct profile, it is unlikely that you will settle for a lesser dram.
One of the top 10-year Single Malts and a must-try for smoke enthusiasts.
Laphroaig 10 facts:
- Aged for 10 years in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks.
- Gold medal at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
- Named in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible as 2019’s Best Single Malt Scotch 10 Years & Under.
Laphroaig 16
- Nose: Iodine, smoke, vanilla, oak
- Palate: Peat, vanilla, clove, seaweed
- Finish: Ash, seaweed, caramel
- Alcohol content: 96 proof (48% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Lagavulin 16
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The general rule that aging reduces smokiness holds true for Laphroaig 16.
While it retains its smoky character, it is not as challenging as the 10-year-old.
The additional 6 years of aging in the barrel have subdued the smoke, allowing the fruity flavors to shine.
Taste:
The aroma of Laphroaig 16 starts with prominent smoke, followed by hints of lime and a mineral undertone.
On the palate, this whisky offers a pleasant smoky note that gradually gives way to ripe fruit flavors and a subtle hint of seaweed.
The finish is long, with minimal warmth, featuring lingering notes of smoke, citrus, and a touch of earthiness.
Is it good?
Laphroaig 16 encompasses the key characteristics of Laphroaig whiskies but in a more settled and mellow manner due to its extended aging.
Initially released as a limited edition to commemorate Laphroaig’s 200th anniversary, it has since become a regular part of their lineup.
Laphroaig 16 facts:
- Aged for 16 years using ex-bourbon barrels.
- Unfiltered.
- The Laphroaig Distillery was established in 1815 by Donald and Alexander Johnston.
- It is named after the area of land at the head of Loch Laphroaig on the south coast of the island of Islay.
- The brand is owned by Beam Suntory.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Laphroaig 10 | $47 |
| Laphroaig 16 | $140 |