Our good friends from the Master of Malt continue to send us samples from time to time. The latest expressions included an 18-year old Laghroaig and a cask strength 9-year old Glenfarclas.
The 18-year old Laghroaig (48% alc/vol) was a bit reserved on the nose but was unmistakably Laghroaig. The nose was a soft Islay smoke with a hint of licorice and oak. Its palate was well integrated, rounded, spirity with peat and peppery. Its finish was very mature with a smooth charcoal flavor at the end. We rated this expression 5-stars.
The cask strength (53.0% alc/vol) 9-year old Glenfarclas had sufficient character but not much complexity. Its palate was sweet with citrus notes. As one might expect the alcohol lingered on the tongue in a most pleasant manner. We thought this expression was worthy of 4-stars and exceptionally well done for its age.
