Introduction
Today, we’re diving into a Laphroaig Lore review, a premium expression from the renowned Islay distillery. For those who have been following along, back in Season 1, we explored Laphroaig 10 Year, our very first peated Scotch. At the time, Bob wasn’t the biggest fan of peat, though Brad had started warming up to it (or perhaps, drinking his way into appreciation). Since then, our palettes have evolved, and thanks to our friend Austin Dupree of Bourbon Earring, we now have the chance to try Laphroaig Lore.
Laphroaig Lore was introduced in 2016 and is crafted from a blend of whiskies aged between 7 and 21 years in five different cask types, including sherry casks and smaller quarter casks. Clocking in at 96 proof (48% ABV), it’s a bold Scotch compared to the typical 80-90 proof range. Let’s dive into how it measures up!
This review is taken from our episode "Braveheart / Laphroaig Lore" Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
Nose
Bob: Right off the bat, this is much less of an intense campfire scent compared to the regular Laphroaig 10. It’s more approachable and has a nice balance of sherry influence with floral, whiny notes. The peat is definitely present but toned down, making it quite pleasant. I’m giving the nose an 8/10.
Brad: I agree, Bob. This has those classic Islay iodine and smoky notes, but it’s not overwhelming. It’s very well done. I’ll also give it an 8/10.
Taste
Bob: On the palate, this hits sweet right up front before that 96-proof alcohol kicks in. The peat is more of a smoked meat flavor rather than pure bonfire. It’s incredibly complex, with waves of alcohol, smoke, and a persistent sweetness. This has a depth that the 10 Year lacked. I’m giving it a 9/10.
Brad: For me, I picked up some subtle floral notes, almost like rose, blending beautifully with the peat. It’s balanced, not offensive, and just rolls over your tongue gently. This is one of the best peated Scotches I’ve had. I’ll give it an 8.5/10.
Finish
Bob: The finish starts strong but doesn’t quite sustain the initial fireworks. It lingers mostly as peaty smoke on the breath rather than in the flavor itself. My first sip was phenomenal, but subsequent sips felt slightly shorter. I’m giving the finish a 7.5/10.
Brad: I love the finish. It’s like embers glowing at the end of a fire—warm and smoky, without overpowering. It’s a pleasant and lasting experience for me, earning an 8.5/10.
Balance
Bob: Laphroaig Lore is incredibly well-balanced. The sherry and peat interplay seamlessly from nose to taste to finish. They’ve really nailed a way to make their traditionally intense peat more approachable. I’m giving the balance a 9/10.
Brad: Absolutely. This is one of the best-balanced whiskies we’ve had in quite a while. Everything just works harmoniously. I’m also giving it a 9/10.
Value
Bob: At $99.99 in Ohio, this is a tough sell. It’s a phenomenal Scotch, but it’s twice the price of some excellent alternatives like Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban. I think it’s best enjoyed as a bar pour for $12 rather than as a bottle purchase. I’m giving it a 6/10 on value.
Brad: While $100 is steep, I think the quality justifies the price if you’re building a collection and want a high-end peated Scotch. This would be my go-to shelf bottle for peat lovers. I’m giving it a 7/10 on value.
Final Scores
Bob: 39.5/50
Brad: 41/50
With an average of 40.25/50, Laphroaig Lore stands out as our highest-rated whiskey of Season 3! It’s a beautifully crafted, complex pour that we wholeheartedly recommend trying at least once. If you see it at a bar, don’t hesitate to order it—it’s worth the experience.
For us, a score of 35/50 typically signals a whiskey worth trying, while anything above 40/50 is exceptional. Laphroaig Lore is firmly in the “great” category. While the $100 price tag might deter some, its depth and balance make it a memorable addition to any whiskey lover’s journey. Cheers!
