80
score
whiskyfun.com
February 17, 2015
We’ve already tried the 16 yo 1968 within that ‘sailing ship’ series. It was much to my liking, but maybe not totally great, because of some weaknesses (WF 87). Colour: deep gold. Nose: this one’s extremely sooty and earthy, farmy as well, without any tropical fruits. Which, I agree, is very un-1960s-Laphroaig. Hay, grass, a touch of manure, garden bonfire, some wet paint, wool, wet dogs (we’re sorry, dogs)… All that makes this baby a little narrow and very dry. I also find a little tallow, or marrow. Some ink too. Maybe a touch of chamomile tea? Mouth: same profile, with some astringency, teas, soot, ashes, coal, liquorice, earth, camphor. In truth, that earth and that camphor really save it. Grape pips oil. The body’s a little thin, which may increase the dryness. Finish: a bit short, cardboardy. Nice touches of grapefruit in the aftertaste, though. Comments: rather too fragile for me, but some parts were still beautiful. Old Laphroaig for scholars?