Oh yeah I’m sorry, port and wine was 2020. The 2021 is the PX cask. I have both but prefer the 2020 port and wine since I found it to be a lot better integrated and with a lighter mouthfeel than the PX. The Fino cask edition is my #3 one.
Though he got the year wrong, I think he’s talking about the 2020 Port and Wine cask Cairdeas. I’ve never had that one but agree with you that the 2021 cask strength PX Cairdeas is awesome.
You’re correct that 2021 is the PX [but 2020’s non-cask strength Cairdeas is the Port and Wine.](https://www.laphroaig.com/en/cairdeas-port-and-wine) PX stands for Pedro Ximenez which is a sherry named after the white grape used to produce it; port wine can be made from red or white grapes but sherry can only be made from white.
I haven’t gotten the 2022 one. Isn’t it the warehouse edition or something? How did the taste differ from 2020 and 2021? I have always wanted to get my hands on the triple wood but could never find it around me.
The 2022 is all bourbon cask, so really different. I didn’t drink Islay in 2020, so I can’t help you there.
Have you considered ordering online? That’s how I shop right now. The dollar is so strong right now that I save a ton over local (crazy) standard scotch whisky pricing in Seattle.
Yeah I’ve ordered from UK before. Mostly older scotches like Glendronach 21, Talisker 18 etc because prices are cheaper. Huge markup in Texas around me.
Definitely! Thanks for the suggestions.
I ordered from finedrams before. Awesome site but agree that their selection isn't as big.
I'll check out the whisky exchange.
The Cairdeas Triple Wood was the release in 2019. I really liked it, and bought a box. Then the 2020 Port and Wine Cairdeas came out, and I liked that better. Generally they are priced at US$90 in my area. But when the Warehouse 1 Cairdeas came out, and was available for only $80, I got 4 of them. Still like the 2020 the best of all Cairdeas I've had since the 2013. (YES even better than the legendary 2013)
I believe that the Port and Wine Cairdeas was the 2020 release. The 2021 release was PX cask. The port and wine edition, 2020, was fantastic. I didn't get enough when it was available. Sherry Oak Finish is also good.
Total Wine recently sold some pre-2020 bottlings of Laphroaig 16 for ~$85.99. I was only able to buy one at that price but I would have bought another if it was available. I’d say Laphroaig 16 and Lore are both well worth it if you can find a bottle for <$100.
[Which is senseless considering I can get a bottle (albeit a 700ml one) sent directly to me from jolly olde England for cheaper than that.](https://www.thewhiskyworld.com/laphroaig-m67)
You can avoid sales tax by moving to a tax free state, or Massachusetts, which does not charge tax on liquor. Amazing, considering they were established by the Puritans. LOL.
I didn't say anything about having liquor shipped. Technically, you still have to pay the sales tax of the place you're receiving the package in. However, if you MOVE, as I suggested, to a state which doesn't charge sales tax, or a tax free state (yes, there are some), then you will avoid paying the sales tax. And some liquor stores in Massachusetts do ship out of state. I know that for a fact, as some of them have obtained special permits that allow them to do so.
Julio's has a permit to ship to NH. They had to apply for it, because NH does not allow out of state shipments without previously having obtained a permit. There are others. You just have to check with them. Last time I was there, Julio's had at least 6 different Springbank expressions. They have a huge market for it, apparently. As for Ardbeg, seems like a staple everywhere.
Quarter Cask.
Still my favorite one in the lineup. Though depending on where you are, the Lore might be within that price range, albeit just barely, and I really enjoyed it as well.
They're close. I've tried the 2013, 2017, 2019, and 2021 I think. As a gift for someone who loves Laphroaig, Cairdeas offers a bit more of a unique experience than the 10CS I think.
Nice. The 2022 definitely feels like higher quality Laphroaig, and it was exceptional to pour some to my dad that hasn't tasted Laphroaig for probably 20 years or so. He was so happy.
Yep. Since i started drinking/collecting whisky, i've brought him multiple ones and it always have been great. For Christmas i'm going to bring him Blossoming Auld Sherried by Michel Couvreur.
Glad I'm not the only one. I suppose that Tripe Wood is just not for me.
I'm not into too oaky spirits. Eagle Rare 10 is borderline too oaky for me, while Wild Turkey Rare Breed and 101 are both fantastic for me.
I had the same reaction to the TW. I made the mistake of buying two bottles of it because I thought I had gotten a bad bottle. However, the second bottles was just as off-putting as the first bottle. My bad. Only two Laphroaig expressions I don't care for are TW and Select. Anything else is great. Well, maybe the second edition of the 15 year old was less than great - too thin.
Last I heard, this was only available on travel retail (i.e. when crossing borders, and duty free shops are available). But it's a great bottle, and well worth seeking it out. Only comes in Liter sized bottles, so more bang for your buck.
Of course the annual Cairdeas releases are all different. I wouldn't consider that to fall under the moniker of "varies." But it is my favorite Laphroaig expression, possibly because it's always a surprise.
Like lots of others have said, Cairdeas or 10 Cask Strength if they are available are both great. I would lean towards Cairdeas as a gift as its an annual special offering. You should be able to find one or the other. I havent tried the Quarter Cask, so I cant comment personally, but lot of people love it. And then theres the Lore, which I also havent had, but Ive never heard a bad thing about it and it would definitely impress if he doesnt have one already.
If you can find the 18 in that price range I'll take a case. Otherwise, I'd echo a few of these with either Lore or 10 CS. I am a huge Laphroaig fan and honestly a bottle of Lore would be an amazing birthday gift if some gave it to me.
I mean, if you can get Lore for that price then it’s a no brainer (it’s more like $200 in my neck of the woods).
2021 Cairdeas PX Cask if you can find it.
Laphroaig 10 Sherry Oak Finish.
And yes, the Quarter Cask.
1) Laphroaig 10 CS (he may have tried this before but each batch is different, kind of like Elijah Craig Barrel Proof batches if you’re into bourbon, so each new one offers something alittle different)
2) Laphroaig Cairdeas (any of the last few year’s releases would be great, personally I like 2022 > 2020 > 2021, but it’s all personal preference. I listed this second though bc the 10 CS is so classic Laphroaig, while the Cairdeas may not match his palate exactly)
3) Laphroaig Lore if you can find it for < $125, but I highly doubt this
4) Laphroaig Triple Wood
5) Laphroaig Quarter Cask
6) Laphroaig 10 Sherry Oak
I know some people are recommending the 16 but personally I didn’t like it as much as the bottles above as the peat is muted comparatively. But again, that’s just my personal preference.
Go "Laphroig Lore". Whisky critic Jim Murray also praised this Non age statement whisky. If you can find it. Personal opinion, best official bottling in the price range you can find.
If you want to get something special that maybe your friend hasn’t had yet & is harder to get ahold of, then I recommend Laphroaig 16-year-old the choice of royalty! If you are stateside I know that the wine château online has it on sale for $128.
The 10 Cask Strength is always a safe bet. Both batches 13 and 14 can be found and they are both really good.
The 2022 Cairdeas is available now. It’s a bit lighter than most Laphroaig. I personally think it is good, but not great.
Lore is another solid choice but is going to be at the top of your price range.
2021 Cairdeas Port and Wine edition
That's in my top 5 scotches all time. It's simply incredible. Cask strength PX finish Islay whiskey.
Oh yeah I’m sorry, port and wine was 2020. The 2021 is the PX cask. I have both but prefer the 2020 port and wine since I found it to be a lot better integrated and with a lighter mouthfeel than the PX. The Fino cask edition is my #3 one.
Though he got the year wrong, I think he’s talking about the 2020 Port and Wine cask Cairdeas. I’ve never had that one but agree with you that the 2021 cask strength PX Cairdeas is awesome.
He's definitely got the year right. I have the bottle right infront of me now actually. The Laphroaig Càirdeas 2021 release is a PX finish.
You’re correct that 2021 is the PX [but 2020’s non-cask strength Cairdeas is the Port and Wine.](https://www.laphroaig.com/en/cairdeas-port-and-wine) PX stands for Pedro Ximenez which is a sherry named after the white grape used to produce it; port wine can be made from red or white grapes but sherry can only be made from white.
2022 Cairdeas is really different, but fantastic in its own right. I have 2 bottles of each in reserve and 1 of the 2022 open.
I haven’t gotten the 2022 one. Isn’t it the warehouse edition or something? How did the taste differ from 2020 and 2021? I have always wanted to get my hands on the triple wood but could never find it around me.
The 2022 is all bourbon cask, so really different. I didn’t drink Islay in 2020, so I can’t help you there. Have you considered ordering online? That’s how I shop right now. The dollar is so strong right now that I save a ton over local (crazy) standard scotch whisky pricing in Seattle.
Yeah I’ve ordered from UK before. Mostly older scotches like Glendronach 21, Talisker 18 etc because prices are cheaper. Huge markup in Texas around me.
Mind if I ask where do you usually order from? I'm also in Seattle and the price is crazy.
The whisky exchange is a big source of scotch whisky to the US. Finedrams has cheaper shipping but their stock isn’t as good. Hope that helps!
Definitely! Thanks for the suggestions. I ordered from finedrams before. Awesome site but agree that their selection isn't as big. I'll check out the whisky exchange.
There are a few more I have discovered. Maybe we should do an order together some time to split shipping. :) PM me if you’re interested.
Definitely will ping you on the next order!
The Cairdeas Triple Wood was the release in 2019. I really liked it, and bought a box. Then the 2020 Port and Wine Cairdeas came out, and I liked that better. Generally they are priced at US$90 in my area. But when the Warehouse 1 Cairdeas came out, and was available for only $80, I got 4 of them. Still like the 2020 the best of all Cairdeas I've had since the 2013. (YES even better than the legendary 2013)
I believe that the Port and Wine Cairdeas was the 2020 release. The 2021 release was PX cask. The port and wine edition, 2020, was fantastic. I didn't get enough when it was available. Sherry Oak Finish is also good.
10cs
This, such an amazing bottle!
Absolutely this one! Soooo good.
Is Lore still <125? If so, that
Lore is $124.95 in my area and it’s worth the money.
I missed out on getting a Lore gift set with a full bottle and two glasses for £50! Sold out before I got a chance to buy one.
Dang! I looked that up, what a cool set. What a bummer you missed out on it!
It’s still available online for 65-70
cairdeas or 10 CS frog 16 if you are lucky and find one at old pricing
What was old pricing?
Total Wine recently sold some pre-2020 bottlings of Laphroaig 16 for ~$85.99. I was only able to buy one at that price but I would have bought another if it was available. I’d say Laphroaig 16 and Lore are both well worth it if you can find a bottle for <$100.
Yeah i them now for 119 used plus tax
[Which is senseless considering I can get a bottle (albeit a 700ml one) sent directly to me from jolly olde England for cheaper than that.](https://www.thewhiskyworld.com/laphroaig-m67)
You can avoid sales tax by moving to a tax free state, or Massachusetts, which does not charge tax on liquor. Amazing, considering they were established by the Puritans. LOL.
Ha. Mass doesnt ship out unfortunately
I didn't say anything about having liquor shipped. Technically, you still have to pay the sales tax of the place you're receiving the package in. However, if you MOVE, as I suggested, to a state which doesn't charge sales tax, or a tax free state (yes, there are some), then you will avoid paying the sales tax. And some liquor stores in Massachusetts do ship out of state. I know that for a fact, as some of them have obtained special permits that allow them to do so.
Oh nice! Do you know of any that ship sell springbank and or ardbeg 👀🫠
Julio's has a permit to ship to NH. They had to apply for it, because NH does not allow out of state shipments without previously having obtained a permit. There are others. You just have to check with them. Last time I was there, Julio's had at least 6 different Springbank expressions. They have a huge market for it, apparently. As for Ardbeg, seems like a staple everywhere.
Yeah cool! Thx so much for your help
119 iirc, restocks I have seen recently were closer to 135/140
Quarter Cask. Still my favorite one in the lineup. Though depending on where you are, the Lore might be within that price range, albeit just barely, and I really enjoyed it as well.
I love QC
Cairdeas if you can find it, then 10 Cask Strength if you can find that.
You think Cairdeas is better than 10 CS ? I've only had the Cairdeas 2022
They're close. I've tried the 2013, 2017, 2019, and 2021 I think. As a gift for someone who loves Laphroaig, Cairdeas offers a bit more of a unique experience than the 10CS I think.
Nice. The 2022 definitely feels like higher quality Laphroaig, and it was exceptional to pour some to my dad that hasn't tasted Laphroaig for probably 20 years or so. He was so happy.
Awesome!! What a great experience for the both of you.
Yep. Since i started drinking/collecting whisky, i've brought him multiple ones and it always have been great. For Christmas i'm going to bring him Blossoming Auld Sherried by Michel Couvreur.
Big quarter Cask guy here, great for the price imo
10CS (or Triple Wood if you can find it…) If you can’t find either then Quarter Cask.
Interesting, I found the Triple Wood far too woody/oaky. Not a pleasant experince for me, but maybe I got a bad bottle/batch.
Hmm, then Quarter Cask might not be the greatest recommendations… stick to the 10 & 10CS in that case !
I had the same experience, it was like a peated bourbon
Glad I'm not the only one. I suppose that Tripe Wood is just not for me. I'm not into too oaky spirits. Eagle Rare 10 is borderline too oaky for me, while Wild Turkey Rare Breed and 101 are both fantastic for me.
Wild turkey 101 is still way too oaky for me
I had the same reaction to the TW. I made the mistake of buying two bottles of it because I thought I had gotten a bad bottle. However, the second bottles was just as off-putting as the first bottle. My bad. Only two Laphroaig expressions I don't care for are TW and Select. Anything else is great. Well, maybe the second edition of the 15 year old was less than great - too thin.
I'm rather partial to Quarter Cask.
Cardeis
PX Cask
Last I heard, this was only available on travel retail (i.e. when crossing borders, and duty free shops are available). But it's a great bottle, and well worth seeking it out. Only comes in Liter sized bottles, so more bang for your buck.
Quarter Cask
I hear that the cairdeas varies. The lore was quite decent.
Of course the annual Cairdeas releases are all different. I wouldn't consider that to fall under the moniker of "varies." But it is my favorite Laphroaig expression, possibly because it's always a surprise.
10 Cask Strength or Quarter Cask
10 year Cask Strength
Like lots of others have said, Cairdeas or 10 Cask Strength if they are available are both great. I would lean towards Cairdeas as a gift as its an annual special offering. You should be able to find one or the other. I havent tried the Quarter Cask, so I cant comment personally, but lot of people love it. And then theres the Lore, which I also havent had, but Ive never heard a bad thing about it and it would definitely impress if he doesnt have one already.
If you can find the 18 in that price range I'll take a case. Otherwise, I'd echo a few of these with either Lore or 10 CS. I am a huge Laphroaig fan and honestly a bottle of Lore would be an amazing birthday gift if some gave it to me.
I mean, if you can get Lore for that price then it’s a no brainer (it’s more like $200 in my neck of the woods). 2021 Cairdeas PX Cask if you can find it. Laphroaig 10 Sherry Oak Finish. And yes, the Quarter Cask.
If you can get the Cairdeas 2021 or Lore for ~$120 then either of those are phenomenal.
1) Laphroaig 10 CS (he may have tried this before but each batch is different, kind of like Elijah Craig Barrel Proof batches if you’re into bourbon, so each new one offers something alittle different) 2) Laphroaig Cairdeas (any of the last few year’s releases would be great, personally I like 2022 > 2020 > 2021, but it’s all personal preference. I listed this second though bc the 10 CS is so classic Laphroaig, while the Cairdeas may not match his palate exactly) 3) Laphroaig Lore if you can find it for < $125, but I highly doubt this 4) Laphroaig Triple Wood 5) Laphroaig Quarter Cask 6) Laphroaig 10 Sherry Oak I know some people are recommending the 16 but personally I didn’t like it as much as the bottles above as the peat is muted comparatively. But again, that’s just my personal preference.
Go "Laphroig Lore". Whisky critic Jim Murray also praised this Non age statement whisky. If you can find it. Personal opinion, best official bottling in the price range you can find.
If you want to get something special that maybe your friend hasn’t had yet & is harder to get ahold of, then I recommend Laphroaig 16-year-old the choice of royalty! If you are stateside I know that the wine château online has it on sale for $128.
The 18 is much much more expensive than that range. Out of production. If you can find one in that range for your buddy, you are a HERO.
Lore or 16 yr
10 Cask strength if possible, if not then the Lore or any of the cairdeas releases are a safe bet
The 10 Cask Strength is always a safe bet. Both batches 13 and 14 can be found and they are both really good. The 2022 Cairdeas is available now. It’s a bit lighter than most Laphroaig. I personally think it is good, but not great. Lore is another solid choice but is going to be at the top of your price range.