When I was first passed a modest dram of Laphroaig (pronounce it "La-froyg") at a party, I must admit to being a little intimidated. But then it was probably my first encounter with a single malt Scotch wisky, and that not being my tipple at the time after a little taste I politely turned it down.

Maybe five years later, and with a bit of exploring in the wolrd of single malts under my belt, I ordered a miniature in the lounge car of the overnight sleeper train from Glasgow to London. And in the cold witching hour, watching the southern lowlands of Scotland pass us by in the night I had a second attempt. And I was deeply impressed.

Islay is one of Scotland's most prodigious whisky producing islands. Although I've yet to sample all the ages and all the distilleries, I'm beginning to understanding the characteristic peaty and smokey quality of Islay's produce. As another reviewer here explains, Laphroaig goes down with quite a hot taste, but it doesn't burn. It's rich but supremely smooth, and in fact not at all intimidating for a relative newcomer to whisky. If you enjoy this, you should explore some of Islay's other whiskys, especially Caol Isla if you want something really complex and powerful. For me, Laphroaig is most certainly the most enjoyable Islay single malt.