Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 12:44 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.
Uncover the differences between Laphroaig 16 and 18 through this detailed comparison and decide which Single Malt aligns better with your taste preferences!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Laphroaig 16 vs Laphroaig 18: Comparison
Laphroaig 16: Delivers a bold Islay experience with intense peat, smoke, and iodine, balanced by vanilla and seaweed. The finish is long with ash and caramel notes.
Laphroaig 18: Offers a refined Islay character with smoother smoke, iodine, and sherry notes, complemented by vanilla and caramel. The finish blends caramel, vanilla, ash, and a hint of rubber.
Verdict: Both Laphroaig 16 and Laphroaig 18 capture the essence of Islay’s peaty complexity. The 16 is for those who crave bold peatiness, while the 18 appeals to those seeking a mellowed smoky charm. Each provides a distinct journey through Laphroaig’s celebrated smoky landscape, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Laphroaig Whisky Picks
Laphroaig 16: A Classic Islay Single Malt with Bold Peat Smoke
- 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
The Laphroaig 16 Year Old you described sounds like a classic and well-balanced Islay single malt Scotch whisky! Here’s a breakdown of its characteristics:
Aromatic Introduction: The signature Laphroaig experience starts with the nose. Powerful scents of iodine and smoke take center stage, announcing the Islay influence. Hints of vanilla and oak provide a touch of sweetness and complexity.
Luxuriously Oily: The first sip introduces a luxurious and dense texture, coating the palate with a satisfying mouthfeel.
Peaty Paradise: The Laphroaig 16 delivers a full-on peat flavor explosion. This bold smokiness is balanced by notes of caramel and vanilla, creating a captivating contrast. Subtle hints of clove and seaweed add intriguing layers to the taste profile.
Lingering Smoke & Warmth: The finish is long-lasting and velvety, leaving a gentle warming sensation on the tongue. Lingering impressions of smoke, caramel, ash, and seaweed linger, reminding you of the unique Laphroaig character.
Is It Good?
Laphroaig 16 is a well-rounded and enjoyable expression, especially for those who appreciate peaty Islay whiskies. The balance between smoke, sweetness, and other subtle flavors creates a complex and intriguing dram.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Laphroaig is known for its bold and smoky character, which might be overwhelming for those new to peaty Scotches.
- The taste profile you described suggests a well-aged Laphroaig, with the smoky notes being balanced by other flavors.
Overall, the Laphroaig 16 Year Old sounds like a delicious and satisfying Islay single malt Scotch whisky!
Laphroaig 18: A Mellowed Islay Single Malt with Smoky Charm
- Nose: Mineral, oak, vanilla, stone fruit
- Palate: Iodine, peat, vanilla, caramel, sherry
- Finish: Caramel, vanilla, ash, rubber
- Alcohol content: 96 proof (48% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Caol Ila 18
Islay fans, rejoice! Laphroaig 18 offers a taste of this legendary distillery’s signature peat smoke, but with a touch more refinement.
Intriguing Hints: The aroma starts with a surprising note – a hint of briny crackers – followed by familiar Laphroaig touches like oak, vanilla, and stone fruit.
Subtle Smoke: On the palate, the classic Laphroaig characteristics of iodine, peat, and sherry are there, but they’re presented in a smoother, more approachable way. Hints of caramel and vanilla add a touch of sweetness.
Warming Finish: The Laphroaig 18 finishes with a pleasant warmth, along with flavors of caramel, vanilla, ash, and a touch of rubber.
Is it right for you? This matured Laphroaig offers a chance to experience the Islay distillery’s signature smokiness in a slightly more mellow form. If you’re a peat enthusiast, this could be a great addition to your collection.
How do they differ?
- The 16 YO is exclusively aged in first-fill bourbon casks.
- The 18YO is aged using a combination of bourbon casks and sherry casks.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Laphroaig 16 | $130 |
| Laphroaig 18 | $140 |