From another thread I posted this. Those who don't like Islay, close your eyes :-)
Quick rundown of Islay (South shore anyway, is there really anything else on Islay?):
Laphroaig 10 yr: by far the best "cheap" whisky; wonderful and savory
Ardbeg 10 yr: disappointing, too compromised between boldness and smoothness; will drink mainly when I'm out of Laph 10 yr
Laph Quarter Cask: supremely savory, pleasingly sweet, great daily
Ardbeg Uigeadail: Wonderful, best yet (vs above). just as savory as the Laph QC, not as sweet but bigger, and more complex like Lagavulin
Laph Cask Strength: very rich, very strong, very spicy. Not as smooth or enjoyable as Laph QC, though arguably more complex. But the hotness detracts from the overall drinkability. This is not a whisky I would have 6 drams of in a row. Laph QC; I would.
Ardbeg Supernova 2010: HUGE, in every way. Takes Uigeadail to the next level, above and beyond any of the Laphroaig noted above. Quite spicy on the finish, but the body and palate are so astonishingly savory that it really comes off well rounded. Especially noteworthy since this is the strongest Islay I've seen; at 60% alcohol, or 120 proof. Oughta be good, at $200 a bottle :-)
I'd tell ya the Supernova has smoke for days, but really any of the above do. Kinda like garlic, you will taste these in the morning, even after you brush your teeth. Love it or hate it... love it here!
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