Laphroaig 15 Year Old 2004 (Release No.11693) - The Stories of Wind & Wave (The Character of Islay Whisky Company)

Continuing my Laphroaig exploration, here's a taste of an independent bottling, 15 years old, from 2004 and release #11693, bottled at 50.2% abv. The aroma starts subtly, presenting smoked salmon, grilled pineapple, honeycomb, and old book bindings, then shifts to lemon macarons, cocoa-dusted almonds, and just-lit pipe tobacco. This is followed by candied mangoes, tangerine peel, and tart cherries, leading to gentle baking spices, asphalt, and polished wood with a moderate alcohol warmth. The palate offers a medium body, beginning with velvety yet slightly tart tropical fruits. A moderate spice quickly subsides into spicy mocha, smoked brisket, and leather-bound books. Next comes an almond croissant, honeysuckle, a hint of sea salt, and fresh pipe tobacco, concluding with caramelized mangoes, peaches, and lemon zest. It finishes with mild baking spices, asphalt, and a touch of bitter black tea, accompanied by a moderate alcohol burn. The finish is of medium duration, initiating with sweet and sour candied tropical fruits that recede, leaving notes of light smoky meats, pipe tobacco, subtle sea salt, asphalt, old book bindings, and slightly bitter black tea. Overall, this is a truly excellent single cask. Time has softened the peat, and the fruit has mellowed into a creamy, tart tropical profile that harmonizes well throughout. However, it leans a bit too tart for my preference, with a moderate spice. I wished for bolder flavors and a more extended finish. At over $300, this is a definite no-go due to the outrageous cost. I actually prefer the Lore, which costs half as much. Series ratings so far: 10-year cask strength batch 11- 3.75 10-year sherry oak finish- 4.0 Lore- 4.0 2019 Caidreas Triple Wood- 3.75 2020 Caidreas Port and Wine - 3.75 2021 Caidreas PX - 4.0 15-year 200 Anniversary- 4.5 16-year- 4.0 TWB “It’s been a long way” 15-year IB- 3.25 15-year by The Character of Islay Release #11693- 4.0