Laphroaig Quarter Cask Review

Last Updated on: 11th June 2024, 01:03 am

Explore all aspects of the Laphroaig Quarter Cask in this detailed review that comprehensively answers all your relevant inquiries!

Reviewed by: J Highland

Laphroaig Quarter Cask: Smoke and Smoothness Amplified (For Peat Lovers)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you enjoy the smoky intensity of Laphroaig 10, the Quarter Cask is an absolute delight, and one I can’t recommend enough.

Intensified Smoke, Remarkable Smoothness

This expression takes everything you love about Laphroaig 10 and dials it up. The smokiness and peat character are amplified, yet it retains a surprising smoothness and lightness despite its higher alcohol content.

A Perfect Balance of Power and Sweetness

The Quarter Cask achieves a remarkable balance. The smoke and peat hit boldly, but a subtle sweetness prevents any harshness. This creates a more luxurious and textured dram compared to the 10 Year Old.

More Smoke, More Value?

For Laphroaig 10 fans seeking a more intense experience, the Quarter Cask delivers a clear step up. The price increase is reasonable, making it a worthwhile investment for the additional depth of flavor, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

• Related: Discover the Best Smoky Whiskies
• Learn more: Laphroaig Quarter Cask Website

What’s unique about it?

• This is a young version of the Laphroaig 10 made from whiskies ranging from 5 to 11 years.
• Aged in quarter casks (smaller barrels), increasing contact of the liquid with the wood accelerates the aging process.
• This makes the whisky more oaky and more tannic.
• Gold at the 2013 International Spirits Challenge
• Silver at the 2013 SF World Spirits Competition.
• Gold at the 2019 SF World Spirits Competition.

How does it taste?

• Nose: Smoke, ash, malt
• Palate: Smoke, oak, coal, bacon, chocolate
• Finish: Long, caramel, smoke, charcoal
• Alcohol content: 96 proof (48% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Lagavulin 8

The nose greets you with an initial presence of smoke and ash, followed by a malty fragrance.

Upon tasting, the Quarter Cask showcases a rich viscosity contributing to a satisfying mouthfeel.

The first sip is an explosion of smoke and peat, yet as the smoke subsides, the palate unfolds with a blend of oak, vanilla, and chocolate.

This combination strikes a fantastic equilibrium between sweetness and smokiness.

The finish is impressively extended, carrying a sweet and immensely satisfying quality.

There’s a sensation that one could almost chew on it, accompanied by a touch of oak spice and charcoal notes.

Is it smoky?

On a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 denotes the highest level, Laphroaig Quarter Cask achieves a score of FIVE, signifying a notably high level of smokiness.

Alternatives

With the budget in mind, you can opt for the Lagavulin 8, which is on par with the revered 16-year-old expression.

Alternatively, you can explore the Distillers Edition from Lagavulin, a selection I personally regard as the paramount smoky Scotch in the market.

While delivering robust strength and smokiness, the Lagavulin 8 doesn’t compromise on taste, as it maintains a pleasing smoothness that ensures an enjoyable experience.

The Talisker 8 could be a suitable choice for those seeking milder smokiness.

This Scotch bottled at high-proof, retains a striking smoothness while delivering solid tasting notes that elevate it above the Talisker 10, providing an enhanced experience.

Laphroaig Quarter Cask FAQ

Here is a quick FAQ to address your doubts:

Price

• United States: $59
• Canada: $98
• Britain: £43
• Australia: $129
• This offers good value considering its high proof and overall quality.

How to drink it?

• Add water: Adding a dash of water releases subtle caramel notes, enhancing the flavor.

Alcohol content

• Bottled at 96 proof (48% ABV), striking a balance between taste and smoothness.

Aging

• Non-age statement (NAS): Crafted from a blend of whiskies aged 5 to 11 years, matured in 125-liter casks, a quarter the size of regular casks.

How is it made?

• Laphroaig Quarter Cask uses barley malted and peated with heather, mosses, and lichens from Islay for a unique flavor profile.
• The malted and peated barley is fermented and double-distilled in unique copper-pot stills with flat surfaces, intensifying the whisky’s character.

About Laphroaig Distillery

• Founded in 1815 by Donald and Alexander Johnston, part of Clan Donald.
• The distillery was family-run until 1954 when Ian Hunter, the last family member, left it to manager Bessie Williamson.
• Laphroaig is owned by Beam Suntory, which also holds brands like Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark.

Does it expire?

• Alcohol doesn’t expire.
• Store it in a cool place away from sunlight, and consume it before the content drops to 25% to prevent undesirable flavor changes.

How to store it?

• Store upright in a cool place, shielded from sunlight, and ensure the bottle is not in contact with the stopper.

How did I review Laphroaig Quarter Cask?

I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller.

My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and whiskey expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.

I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.

Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.

⭐ – Poor, ⭐⭐ – Average, ⭐⭐⭐ – Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent.

Laphroaig Quarter Cask: Specs

Type of Whisky	Single Malt
Age statement	NAS
Proof	96
ABV	48%
Is it good?	Yes
Is it top-shelf?	Yes
Does it expire?	No
Sweet?	Moderately
Warm?	No
Peaty?	Yes
Good for beginners?	No
Good for cocktails?	No
Good with Coke?	No
Calories per shot	108
Gluten-free	Yes
Keto-friendly	Yes
Kosher	Yes