The name Jack Tar mostly appears with rum releases, but they’ve also bottled cognac, armagnac and other spirits. Whisky too, although that is certainly not their biggest focus.
Today we’ll try their Laphroaig 1996, selected with Project 1091 in a series that also includes Glen Moray and Strathisla malts.
Laphroaig 26 yo 1996 ‘Yggdrasil’ (45%, Jack Tar / Project 1091, 2023, refill hogshead #5391, 101 btl.)
Nose: a nicely evolved style of peat. Rather farmy, with whiffs of sheep stables that always remind me of Brora. Olive oil, hessian, touches of gorse flower and leather. Then hints of smoked bacon and waxed papers. A kind of rich fruity sweetness underneath (stewed mango?), not unlike these undisclosed Laphroaigs of late.
Mouth: yes indeed, if you know the Secret Islay malts, you know what to expect (although perhaps a little more diluted). Mango, pink grapefruit, candyfloss and hints of maracuya. After that some herbal and lighty smoky notes, back towards smoked bacon. Coastal sharpness after a while, with linseed oil, walnuts and herbal tea.
Finish: long and warming, with ashes, a drop of coffee, hay and iodine.
Laphroaig at this age is almost always a joy, with this specific ‘evolved’ peatiness and a burst of warming fruity notes. Good to see this is not limited to the 1989-1991 period. On the other hand it seems the ability to mention the distillery significantly increased the price of this bottling too. Sold out anyway.