{"product_id":"smws-29-277-holy-smoke-laphroaig-19-year-2020","title":"SMWS 29.277 Holy Smoke! (Laphroaig) 19-year 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003eExperience a captivating fusion of powerful Islay peat and rich Oloroso sherry with Holy Smoke! This 19-year-old single cask whisky from SMWS offers an unparalleled journey into depth and complexity. Prepare for a magnificent explosion of smoke, dark fruits, and maritime character, bottled at a robust 112.2 proof.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \n        \u003ch3\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNose:\u003c\/strong\u003e Initial waves of dense, peaty smoke emerge, reminiscent of a crackling bonfire by the sea, intertwined with maritime brininess and a hint of medicinal iodine. Beneath this powerful overture, the refill Oloroso butt imparts layers of dried dark fruits – figs, dates, and stewed plums – alongside old leather, pipe tobacco, and a subtle earthiness. A touch of sweet, caramelized sugar and toasted nuts provides balance to the intensity, with a faint whisper of damp forest floor and extinguished embers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePalate:\u003c\/strong\u003e The palate immediately confirms the nose's promise of robust Islay character. A rich, chewy texture coats the mouth, delivering a firm yet elegant peat smoke that feels both medicinal and sweet. The Oloroso influence shines through with a sophisticated interplay of sherry notes: dark chocolate, aged balsamic, and roasted coffee beans. This is beautifully complemented by a spicy kick derived from the proof – black pepper, ginger, and a touch of chili flake – yet it remains remarkably smooth given its strength. Lingering hints of toasted almond, sea salt, and a faint tarry note add complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is exceptionally long and evolving, a true testament to its nineteen years of maturation. The peat smoke gradually recedes, leaving a warm, comforting glow. Residual sweetness from the dried fruits and sherry persists, intertwined with a pleasant oaky dryness and a subtle leathery character. A final, lingering touch of smoked paprika and dark cacao provides a memorable close, inviting further contemplation and a desire for another sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n      \n      \n        \u003ch3\u003eAbout the Distillery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003eThe Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) is not a distillery in itself, but rather an independent bottler renowned for selecting exceptional single casks of whisky from distilleries across Scotland and beyond. They offer these whiskies to their members, un-chillfiltered and at cask strength, often with evocative and idiosyncratic tasting notes and whimsical names. Each bottling is a unique expression of a single cask, making every release a rare and collectible experience.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Scotch Malt Whisky Society","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53086772625715,"sku":"2020 LAPH 19Y 0494","price":750.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0807\/1187\/6915\/files\/SMWS_29_277_Holy_Smoke___Laphroaig__19_year_2020.jpg?v=1772128080","url":"https:\/\/subrosaselections.com\/products\/smws-29-277-holy-smoke-laphroaig-19-year-2020","provider":"Sub Rosa Selections","version":"1.0","type":"link"}