As the industry grew, the small casks fell into disuse – bigger and more cost effective barrels became the norm, for maturation and transportation.
But there is a critical relationship between the barrels and the maturing spirit-- the small cask size allows up to 30% more contact with the wood compared to some of the larger sizes used today, so the maturation process is intensified.
The folks at Laphroaig decided to recreate some of the Quarter Casks and the flavors they produce and then transferred some still maturing Laphroaig from their larger style barrels into the Quarter Casks.
The additional oak influence creates a soft sweetness and velvety feel when first tasted, then the intense peatiness so unique to Laphroaig, comes bursting through. The finish is very long and alternates between the sweetness and the peat. The award winning family of Laphroaig Whiskies includes the rich, pungent 10 Year Old to the smooth and exceptionally rare 40 Year Old. All of the Laphroaig fine spirits have 200 years of loving care distilled into their very essence. Enjoy and savor them with care--slowly and responsibly.
Sounds superb! And what a beautiful location...
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