Laphroaig 1996 26 YO Yggdrasil (Jack Tar)

Laphroaig 1996 26 YO Yggdrasil (Jack Tar), 48.7%

Independent bottler Jack Tar has brought this old Laphroaig to the market. It was distilled back in 1996, matured in a single refill hogshead (cask #5391), and bottled 2022. Limited to 101 bottles.

The sales price for the Yggdrasil is € 890.; see more details on the official product page. It seems to be sold out on the official Jack Tar site, however it is still available as part of the Birnam Series Set which also includes a Strathisla 2012 and a 2008 Glen Moray, at a collected price of € 1190.

Nose: The aroma starts with sweet ashes complemented by a fresh salty sea breeze, conjuring images of smoked and uncooked bacon alongside lightning-stricken, blackened oak. As it develops, nuances of cacao powder and a well-worn leather apron stained with oil and grease emerge. Further exploration reveals subtle citrus fruits and old bandages in the backdrop, with surprisingly few of the typical medicinal scents.

Taste: A full-bodied assault of flavors, hot and fiery from the get-go. It delivers a robust peaty impact, mingled with hot, dry ashes and a gritty, earthy character. The profile then softens into a juicy fruitiness of orchard fruits and a dash of citrus, underlaid by persistent soot and ashes. Milk chocolate and creamy vanilla add complexity.

Finish: The long finish brings a mix of black and white pepper and dark chocolate. The smoked meat noted on the nose makes a reappearance, accompanied by a pronounced brininess. Charred lemon and orange evoke a barbecue scene beside salty, smoked bacon, closing with sweet licorice and dried herbs.

Comment: Surprisingly feisty for its age, brimming with vibrancy and fun.

Score 93/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas