The PX Cask was a wonderful privilege to have. Imagine the setting…
American oak, quarter cask, and Pedro Xiemenez sherry. These are the three barrels used to mature the fine, complex and rich expression that is the PX Cask. As of right now, it is available only in travel retail, or on the Laphroaig website. Indian buyers be warned! There is a 130% import duty if you try to buy malt from international online retailers. The Delhi Duty Free and Bangkok Duty Free do NOT stock it, and so far I have only found it through European Duty Free retail.
With a fine mixing of the above-mentioned maturations, and 48% ABV, the PX Cask is one potent mix, and certainly not for the faint hearted. Beginners will likely be unable to enjoy or appreciate the taste, but even progressing amateurs will immediately spot the inherent genius of the PX Cask. The American oak and quarter cask maturations provide it with the characteristic Laphroaig smoke, along with the hint of fruit and salt. The PX Cask maturation gives it a sweet, creamy burn that is hard to forget. For days after my first night with the PX Cask, its taste lingered in my mouth and memory.
The medicinal, chlorine like palate of Laphroaig is still there in the PX Cask, but it is perfectly complemented by a fruity undertone. Taken straight, it bursts of oak and peat and might probably be too much for the novice. After a little water, the peat is still there but moderated by the aired tones of sherry and cream. This is definitely not a malt to miss, if you have the opportunity to try it.
Notes
nose: rich, sweet, oodles of smoke, cream palate: wood, smoke, buttery cream, fruit, nut 48% ABV