ARDBEG 10 vs. LAPHROAIG 10....Scotch

Join Scott and Bart as we do a versus of Ardbeg 10 and Laphroaig 10 the two peated monsters. This review/tasting has been in the making for awhile now and we finally did it. Peat comes from Islay in scotland and these two beasts are considered the hallmarks of peated scotch whisky.
check out scotchtestdummies.com for more information on our next LIVE stream tasting.
Peat vs. Peat which one comes out ahead...or in a peated world can they both win???????????

[@stevetech5150]

you dont get a peat from Laphroaig or Ardbeg??? You don't know anything...either one of you. Idiots. They are both some of the most peaty whiskys available, Morons. later you say harsh peat. then ash smoke. you make no sense. watch whisky tribe or someone else that actually knows something about whisky tasting. bondo puddy???? you both are morons.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Mom? Did you make another ghost account?

[@bubbaotto1172]

@@ScotchTestDummies 5150

[@ericstanley8003]

Had to come and see this comment. You sir need to check yourself and relax. Whiskey is fun and enjoyable. If you are not, you should try something else. Wine lovers have lots of snobs for you to hang out with.

[@hombreleon]

I’m here because of the Knob Creek 12 video. 🤣

[@1247111]

charlatan like whiskey tribe? pathetic shit

[@steveh.3370]

Love them both. The Islays simplified my scotch single malt purchasing decisions. When I buy a single malt it will always be an Islay.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Love the peat!

[@toddstevens6608]

There's great highland and island peated single malt whisky. Check out Ardmore, Ballechin (Edradour), and Ledaig (Tobermory), and Talikser.

[@icecreamalacarte]

lol, Ardbeg hits waaaay harder on the peat; Laphroaig gently lays the peaty mist on your palette. Lowland guy forever but Laphroiag is my guy (as I watch this vid I'm drinking Ardbeg Uigeadail :/)

[@JAF2991]

Yep peat messed me up, once I got to taste Islay peat I can't drink any other scotch now lol

[@TruelyBadassAmerican]

I pulled the trigger and bought a bottle of Laphroaig 10 this weekend... Best purchase in a while! I love it.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Glad we could be of assistance. Unless it turned out bad, then its "too bad."!

[@PlagueKing_LordFalix]

Am I the only person who loves the clarity and brightness of Ardbeg? I love how it looks so crisp and refreshing and light, then you get close and it punches you in the face, lol. I like them both and at times I will even grab the Laphroaig over the Ardbeg. That being said, Ardbeg is my drinking whiskey and if I had to choose only one forever it is no contest.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

its a amazing how lightly colored a heavy peated whisky can be!

[@jerrymiller7270]

I prefer the Ardbeg 10 myself. I am subscribed to a bunch of reviewers. The three I make a point to watch in no particular order Scotch Test Dummies, Trenny and C, and Ralfy. If you haven't watched Ralfy in a while, I found today's (10/1/16) episode to be entertaining. He was scotch testing in the wind. Ok, I fibbed they are in order.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

We like the way you talk Jerry!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

and your fibbing!!!

[@blahmehmeh]

I'm with you! Ralfy has, hands-down, the best scotch reviews. He really knows what he's talking about, and wouldn't tell you (like these guys did) that the bottles are colored green to hide the whisky's color... And yes, the windy day review! Drinking after spilling on the table top, awesome!!

[@THEPHYSICALSPIRIT]

Have seen some negative comments, don't know why, you guys do a great job. This is all subjective and fun and everybody's here to get drunk enjoying a product we love. (IMHO).

[@ScotchTestDummies]

great comment! thanks THEPHYSICALSPIRIT!

[@nztrader2.04]

Lovin you're work guys, finding myself watching you more than Ralfy these days, keep up the great work :)

[@keithpetersen560]

I agree. I've watched Ralfy many times, but I just find him dry and boring lately so I stopped watching him.

[@4cooey]

Ralfy is a great dude but he discourages me sometimes, everything he reviews was better years ago. Make me start thinking I missed the boat.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

thanks for the compliment!

[@SgtBart]

Well thank you very much! That is high praise.

[@stevewalther9965]

Ralphy is Mozart and Scotch test Dummies are the Beatles.

[@TheSuperTrickey]

Loved this comparison. Extremely useful to hear both of your thoughts, as an Ardbeg 10 fan considering a laphroaig purchase. Thank you.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Super.

[@willemkilian9563]

I poured these two whiskies for myself side by side while watching this. It's pretty fun comparing these two! My nose can't pick up smoke in any peated whisky (except maybe very faintly in the first second or two after pouring), and I have had quite a few, including these two, Lagavulin, Talisker, Springbank etc, but on the taste I can usually identify peat very easily. On the one hand that may be a deficiency of my sense of smell, but on the other I can strongly pick up the other aromas in heavily peated whiskies which are usually hidden behind the smoke for most people. For me, the Laphroaig's smell has a more subdued sweetness with maritime notes to the fore, while the reverse is the case with the Ardbeg. On the taste the Laphroaig is a bit more salty (but also with some sweetness and complexity), whereas the Arbeg is more spicy. Thanks for the video, cheers guys! Edit: I combined the last bit of the two in one glass (almost 50/50 - just a slight little bit more of the Arbeg), and the result is quite interesting. The nose retains a lot of the characteristic of the Ardbeg, but a little more rounded. There's heavy peat on the palate in the arrival with some sweetness and seaweed tang in the development going into a bit of spice. The finish seems a bit subdued, but this could be because I have been sipping quite a lot already. Interesting blend!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

very nice, great idea on the 50/50! thanks Willem!

[@jeffbenson6102]

As i'm watching this, I have an Ardbeg 10 going. Alas I don't have the Laphroaig 10 to compare. I love the Ardbeg, very nice! One thing I have to mention, I have found that a sip of almost any great single malt scotch followed by a slug of a quality IPA brings out the hoppyness to a point that is like your first sip every time, it's awesome!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

I will have to try that with an IPA Jeff. I (bart) have done this with a Guinness and found that to be very delicious.

[@march4025]

I’ve got both in my possession but I have to say Ardbeg ten wins

[@ScotchTestDummies]

boom!

[@judahsears4463]

Laphroaig vrs. Ardbeg is like comparing 2 super bowl winning teams ... they're both champs. Sounds like a Win Win scenario. Cheers.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

definitely! thanks judah

[@Ben_Demon_Hunter]

Haven't had either- yet. Ardbeg is a no-brainer, can't wait (Maybe a gift, on my birthday🤔🤷‍♂️😍). Laphroaig 10 is starting to grow on me- come on my radar- Laphroaig 10CS sounds like a dream.

[@Ben_Demon_Hunter]

The last 30 seconds of the video 😆😆😆🐶😆🐶😆🐶

[@ScotchTestDummies]

both great bottles, must try.

[@Ben_Demon_Hunter]

@@ScotchTestDummies will be getting Ardbeg 10, for my birthday- in March 🤗😍😍

[@BigJay703]

Go back five years and it was close. Sadly the recent bottles of Laphroaig I have experienced have been very disappointing. Whereas Ardbeg seems to remain consistent. In America Ardbeg is abt 5 bucks a bottle more, which makes the purchasing decision a no-brainer.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

we just did a blind shootout and Ardbeg excels in several areas. Thanks Bucko!

[@TheJusnic82]

Ardbeg 10 just has a MUCH MUCH better back end and finish then Laphroaig 10

[@kubr1ck36]

Ardbeg 10 is better than Laphroaig 10 in every aspect

[@ericbone3858]

Honestly I go back and forth between which I like better. When I want that punch in the face, I choose Laphroaig 10 over Ardbeg 10.

[@Mark-xg8ug]

I'm all for a great back end, but I like the Laphroaig 10

[@steveh.3370]

Laphroaig 10 for me.

[@alexjiharev9770]

I bought Laphroaig cask select, something like that, about 6 months ago. Was very heavy peat. Last week i bought Ardbeg 10. Emm.. It was nothing, compare to that Laphroaig i drank before ))) But still very enjoyable.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Very nice!

[@foodquig]

Both are my go-to stormy-night-by-the-fire Winter drams... Unless I have some Port Charlotte on hand, that is.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Bart likes your thoughts!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

I like the way you talk. Bart

[@foodquig]

LOL Thanks

[@janmozzorecchia550]

Ardbeg, for life. Being the only drinker in the house, gotta say that nothing beats a newly opened bottle...It truly slaps your senses with burnt bark, bacon and an ashy finale...Not a smoker, but it's very close to a cigar aftertaste. After the bottle being opened for a couple of months, I've noticed some major mellowing of the peaty side tho. How about Benromach Peaty? Anyone?

[@ScotchTestDummies]

great notes! thanks Jan!

[@nredman]

Laphroaig all the way. Even with the color, chill filtering and lower ABV. I just enjoy that Laphroaig character - heavy caramel, vanilla and seaweed. Licorice and smoke finish that lasts for days. Ardbeg comes off fruitier to me which is fine but I rarely go back to Ardbeg. Everyone likes different things...good thing we have lots of whisky options. Cheers...dummies.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

the Laphroaig comes off more citrusy but the ardbeg more earthy less sweet. just picked up a spare bottle of the Laph10 yesterday for $28. Scott

[@nredman]

$28 - good deal.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

👍

[@11thstalley96]

I wonder if the caramel that you associate with Laphroaig is due to the E150 colorant that Laphroaig allegedly uses.

[@secordman]

Had a glass of that ashtray Ardbeg once, nice finish though, never Laphroiag. Smokiest I've had are Ardmore Legacy and Johnnie Black. Just a warm-up to these two I guess. Might have to pull the trigger on one of the Islays here.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

definitely worth trying!

[@budj13]

I love a versus review! Well done, guys!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

thanks Bud!

[@skizzarz]

1:43 coloured bottles are used to slow the oxidizing process accelerated by light, to make the contents age more slowly and smoother.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

thanks skizzarz

[@skizzarz]

@@ScotchTestDummies looking forward to trying ardbeg 10 soon!

[@themaltedmancave9499]

Scott I used to be exactly like you....all I would get with a peated whisky was vanilla and peat. I finally have passed that stage and can find all of the amazing notes in peated whiskies. It took forever for me to finally get to that point. I think talking to you recently.... you have passed that phase now as well, and are starting to truly appreciate peated whiskies right? The Ardbeg 10 wins for me:)

[@ScotchTestDummies]

yep, past that now.

[@78town]

Enjoyed the review! I both enjoy the ashyness of the Ardbeg and the Campfire if the Laphroaig.. The Ardbeg gets the slight upper hand with me because it it’s not uncolored and not chill-filtered, so the natural proteins and fats that are not filtered mixed with the higher abv really leaves a longer lasting taste.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

you mean to say Ardbeg is not colored, and we agree!

[@23v0lv32]

Ardbeg 10 has one of the best, lingering finishes imo. Its so good.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

an excellent entry peated scotch.

[@jesseregenauer630]

No bullshit 23v0lv32!!! That peat smoke taste lasts LOOOONG after the last sip...... Just an OUTSTANDING Islay expression.......

[@BR279]

Laphroaig 10 Cask Strength, and Quarter Cask are the best!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

both damn good!

[@toddstevens6608]

My fav Laphroaigs

[@criell-sdkwhisky8674]

Laphroaig QC vs Ardbeg 10 would be a more fair comparance.. both in price range and intensity

[@ScotchTestDummies]

that would be a good one, or the Laph QC vs. the Corryvreckan

[@mikeaknightful]

Thanks guys! I prefer the Laphroaig 10y as well. Lagavulin 16 has to be the smoothest peated scotch I've ever had. But I still love the Laphroaig - it is always in my stock at any given time.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

thanks for tuning in knightful!

[@welshtoro3256]

Ardbeg 10 all the way for me. The U.K bottling strength for the Laphroaig 10 is a crummy 40% along with chill-filtration and colour. All my favorite Laphroaigs these days come from independent bottlers.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

I'm pretty sure we're getting the coloring on the Laphroaig here too.

[@billyhughes9776]

From the first time I tried both, I feel the Ardbeg 10 has been more consistent over the years and I prefer the overall flavor profile. For Laphroaig I prefer the Quarter Cask or Triple Wood. I do have a bottle of the Laphroaig 10 yr cask strength that I've not opened yet -- that will happen sometime this coming winter.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Good choices Billy.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Very good...go Cask strength Bart

[@AlexanderBukh]

Ralphy says so too.

[@brianpage6932]

Awesome video guys, got a Laphroaig QC on the way, probably won't open it for a bit, got 3-4 bottles open atm, love the VS and shoot out videos, informative

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Brian! Don't be afraid to open those bottles!

[@jamesnorwood4084]

If that's the case _I'm not disputing your word_ then perhaps we should have a brace of hound dogs doing the review. One sniff ... they got it. One bark ...fair, two barks ... it's good, three barks ... it's a buy.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

three barks all around

[@tobelieve627]

Just tried the laphroaig 10, it was so light? Comparing to ardbeg, which is more flavorful. I think the peat and smoke is more pronounced on the nose for laphroaig but the taste is opposite. I will wait till after it passes the neck pour, but for now Ardbeg is a clear winner.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

good call either way!

[@tobelieve627]

@@ScotchTestDummies actually the taste opened up quite a bit after passing the neck. I like it a lot more now. I’m glad I kept trying. :)

[@SuperScoooty]

I love the back and forth between Laphroaig and Ardbeg. Pretty sure once people have chosen their side they're sticking with it. As for me... I'm sticking with the dark side. Ardbeg for life.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

good point Scott!

[@Kiltedmoose1]

Great stuff, boys. Two great drams - although I still don't know why we get the Laphroaig 10 at 40% here in Scotland. I prefer the Quarter Cask because of the higher strength. Maybe one day Laphroaig will drop the 40%. Cheers!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

We agree with you.

[@dmperry1974]

Lagavulin, Ardbeg, Laphroaig, any Islay single malt makes my day, especially after a hard day of work at home or at the job, a good dram helps with relaxing the soul.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

we like the way you talk!

[@vaquero45full]

Both are great malts, but i do prefer the Laphroaig as its peat tends to blend well with the nose, taste and finish. The Ardbeg's peat to me overpowers the malt itself. However, they are both well made. Great review guys.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Vaquero!

[@MahirTandon]

I had my first islay whisky a couple days back and it was the laphroig 10 and i have to say i really liked it. Have never tasted a whisky like that.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Bingo. That is what the peat brings to the party. A bottle of different

[@Gachain]

Hey Guys, Very informative Review, Particularly enjoyed hearing about the difference in the Peat experience between the Two. I have yet to have ARDBEG but LAPHROAIG Peat is definitely like a Campfire to my Tastebuds. Looking forward to ARDBEG 10 for the fact it is Non-Chillfiltered.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

similar assault on the tastebuds.

[@steveh.3370]

Ardbeg is also natural and non-colored.

[@altonza]

Love his Bill 'Big Tuna' Parcells demeanor and calmness - Newbie to Scotch and thoroughly enjoyed this video; subscribed!!!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Bull, Great to have you on board

[@toddstevens6608]

I only buy the Laphroaig 10 cask strength, pay the extra 20 bucks for a better presentation. Just got the Ardbeg 10, loving it!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

The Ardbeg 10 is great!

[@jmu4508]

An Islay heavyweight matchup! Love both but the nod for me goes to the Laphroaig. The Ardbeg has a brighter taste almost like a grassy lightness towards the finish. Laphroaig has a wee bit more depth maybe some more smoky seaweed and a bit of citrus. Both are awesome.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Great notes J

[@cheyneturbyfill4727]

On the Ardbeg i get a minty/floral almost honey tangerine on the nose, and although it’s peat forward as would be expected in an Islay its more of a pleasant peat oil rather than heavy smoke. On the tongue it reminds me of the way fall leaves smell after a rain with a pleasant sweetness on the tip of the tongue as it finishes. I couldn’t really get the bondo putty taste though, my experience was rather nice nonetheless. A complex drink that i look forward to coming back to to see what I get next time. The Laphroiag 10 is certainly on my list of soon to sip.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

great notes, thanks Cheyne!

[@Grimexperience62]

Another great comparison and evaluation. Nice to know that the Laphroaig has some citrus tones as opposed to all peat smoke..

[@ScotchTestDummies]

its really apparent when you have them side by side!

[@hatchetteamtoledo5094]

My first was Laphroaig cask strength. I was sold the second I opened the bottle..

[@ScotchTestDummies]

thats a good one to be love at first site with!

[@hatchetteamtoledo5094]

Indeed! Opened a triple wood last night very good.. Thanks for all you guys do..

[@ScotchTestDummies]

thank you for watching Hatchet!

[@einthedog]

Same here

[@joeappleton6849]

64.99 cask strength. Laphroaig. 10. Patch 07 at Walgreens. With no packing tube

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Awesomeness

[@jesseregenauer630]

Indeed what a stand off between the two single malt 10 year Islay expressions... I think both are very good. That said, the more I taste even the scotch whiskies I am so very familiar with from a few years ago when I started on my single malt journey-----I still find notes I'd not previously remembered in both olfactory and palate sensations. You guys are cool. Love your reviews.......Oh and I seem to be favoring the Ardbeg 10 as tasting notes goes.... To me; deliciously STRONG peat, green fruit (perhaps a bit sour), vanilla, a touch of mint, citrus, and then the return of a long lingering peat smoke on the tongue.........Just fan-fucking-TASTIC..... I dig my Ardbeg 10 neat, on the rocks, and somewhere in between just depending on the mood.... CHEERS!!!!!!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Awesome comments Jesse! Thanks for tuning in. Watch our Ardbeg Dark Cove review we just posted last Saturday.

[@PradeepRaajkumar1981]

Laphroaig 10 seaweed Tcp and grass ....Ardbeg 10 46 percent burns with Lemon chocolate...my frequent buy in Dan Murphy...Lovely Captains

[@SeanMcCarthy3399]

Watching this for the second time... and love that Caveman reference :) Great review guys!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Sean! Spread the word.

[@Islwynpaul]

Ardbeg all the way for me but I love both and regard Islay whiskys as the pinnacle of Malt Whisky distillation regardless of peat. Good video guys very entertaining.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Paul...We agree and Love the peat.

[@anirutvideo]

For me it's the A-10 all the way. I like the no-nonsense character. I want peat ... boom! I want the strength ... boom! I want a nice long finish that stays on and on and on ... boom! Simple and effective. Anyhow, both are great drams in their own right. Cheers!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

We like your BOOMs Anirut!!

[@jeffmill999]

An interesting fact about ABV being lower is australia...Their excise tax is nearly $90 per liter of 100% alcohol... So, just the excise tax on a 100 proof whisky is nearly $45/liter..that does not include the sales tax. So, dropping ABVs on whisky is common...even beers... Whisky made in australia can be 37%...believe it or not. The aussies really get hammered. I have met a lot of aussie expats or tourists here in Cambodia and they love the alcohol and cigarette prices here...When they go back they are loaded down with duty free often pushing the limits to what is allowed. I am finally getting an Ardbeg 10 or uggi...next week and look forward to the side by side. I must say I am not a big fan of Laphroig and I rarely reach for my bottles these days.. I may just buy a Little Laddie 10 to replace my Little Laddie NAS...

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Ouch. I like the old Aussie rules of my youth…which simply meant rough and trouble and fun! Aussie rules tag was brutal

[@jeffmill999]

@@ScotchTestDummies I think it was channel 19 in KC that used to put on Aussie rules football..or footy...Quite a game..tough lads. I found a Douglas Laing Rock Oyster 18 and am going to pick it up tomorrow. I think he has Billy Walker Glendronach 12s...liters for $55...I will check the laser date... I have an Aussie buddy who lives like a King down on the coast on his pension. He drinks a lot of beers...50 cents a can here ...smokes butts..50 cents a pack...in Australia a pack of smokes is like $30....about $20us..and beers are crazy high these days...He could not live on his pension back there... Cheers and Happy New Year...

[@vanguillamun3907]

Two of my favorite. Bowmore, then the best lagavullin

[@ScotchTestDummies]

thanks Van

[@Lalune350z]

Hmm I always thought that Ardbeg is the richer one of the two. It's very rich in flavor and massages my mouth VS Lephroig tasting a bit flat in comparison. Lol I know you whiskey folks are gonna throw fires at me, but Ardbeg is the winner for me. My number one choice of whiskey with a cigar. Love Lephroig too, just something about the Ardbeg that clicks with me more.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

this is an old review, we both love Ardbeg and Laphroaig now.

[@sowlegwhiskyreview5501]

Always the funniest t-shirts in the review channels :D Nice review as always.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks for watching sowleg!

[@wildernessman760]

They ad color before the bring it down to the bottling strength. So if a bottle says 48% abv. 96 proof then that's where it was when they sealed the bottle.

[@adamstephenson8361]

ive been waiting for this one . I think a versus is a great way to really find different flavors. I find my self doing this all the time. I recently had some of the ardbeg 10 and was really surprised how much I enjoyed it, having been pretty much a bourbon drinker. I just noticed a bottle of the dark cove (not the com. release) at the local shop for $100. Its really temping me . great video keep it up

[@ScotchTestDummies]

we just reviewed the dark cove committee release a couple of weeks ago. really liked it. non committee release should be almost as good.

[@keithpetersen560]

Never had either one. I did smell the Laphroaig 10 one time and it smelled like a band aid. I bought the Ardbeg 10 for my son this year and he loved it. By your description, I would go with the Ardbeg 10. I like the earthy full body taste you described of the Ardbeg over the citrus taste of the Laphroaig. The Ardbeg 10 is on my list to get. Just picked up the Laphroaig Triple Wood which I'm finding is a little hard to get. Can't wait to crack that one this winter. I wil crack my Laphroaig 18 maybe next year, that was a hard one to find. Great video.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Keith. Good picks.

[@PradeepRaajkumar1981]

ultimate comparison video captains...wow...details on palate great

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Pradeep!

[@PradeepRaajkumar1981]

Scotch Test Dummies Cheers captains... Nice... Will Check out your live meet in words...

[@catman32000]

Lap10 is definitely my favorite of the two, but they are both excellent.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

yes they are and we just shot a new one where we threw Lagavulin 16 in with them to see how it fares.

[@JustRelax-pd5xs]

Good review guys, I prefer the Laphroiag. Cheers.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

thanks Harry.

[@GunnySGT1911]

You guys need to do this tasting again, but this time start with the Laphroaig and see how the compare. It's amazing how much your first whiskey can influence the second.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

that would be interesting to see Gunny.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Hmmm that is interesting

[@jessievoisin5462]

Ralfy swears E150 shortens the finish. Thanks for the versus. Love em both (and throw the Lagavulin and Port Charlotte into that mix). Can't go wrong with any of these for some peaty goodness. Woof!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Jessie!

[@gman5986]

Love the intro boys!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Boom! Thanks Gman

[@TYCHO2003]

Enjoyed it once again!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

thanks Patrick.

[@TYCHO2003]

Scotch Test Dummies and guess what.. I've won a bottle of Laphroaig 10 with my personalised label on it at the Laphroaig site.... Would be a shame to empty that one, as much as it would be a shame to keep it closed... Darn dilemmas

[@craigs4647]

Yes, Laphroig has caramel added and is chill filtered, but Ardbeg is non-chill filtered with no artificial colouring.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

This is true. Don't know why Laphroiag thinks they have to do that.

[@Cypeq]

it would be too good...

[@christophervarnava6113]

Hmmmmm them Peary notes , so much more than just a sweet scotch, So complex , picture this setting by a log fire hearing the fire crackling , as you taste the earthy peat it fills your mouth , with your eyes closed the scotch coating your mouth so smooth flavorfull taking you back to where the scotch was made Scotland .

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Great points Christopher!

[@christophervarnava6113]

Laphroaig knocks it out the Park for me , But i think the Quarter ROCKS ! Over the 10

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Bart would probalby agree with you. One of his all time favorites is the Cask Strength 10 year.

[@stonecutter205]

Ardbeg for me !

[@ScotchTestDummies]

good call Bobby.

[@tobelieve627]

Ardbeg is natural color and non chill filtered. Lapgroaig isn’t. That’s one reason why I haven’t bought the laphroaig.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

this is true

[@InternetWarriorQwer]

Two of my favorite whiskys, great video. I get a mint, earthy peat and smoked meat flavor that is dry and very robust with a lingering finish with Ardbeg. I find Laphroaig slightly more simple and versatile with a medicinal, beach campfire smoke, wintergreen/camphor flavor and quite a bit more sweetness. Couldn't choose a favorite here to be honest.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Good call Brandon, both are excellent.

[@freddieslaughter1107]

Both of these are excellant

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Slaughter

[@ScotchTestDummies]

We agree

[@SuperAlboni]

I had a mini bottle of Ardbeg 10 that was just perfect but when I got a fullsize bottle it was sweeter with less intense peat and a shorter finish. Bit disappointed.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

that's odd, usually the small bottles aren't as good as the big bottles.

[@davidkral7317]

Dam, interesting!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Boom

[@gabrielgvs0619]

Confession: After a little over a year into my Scotch adventures, I've yet to even any Ardbeg offering despite the fact that Laphroaig is my favorite bottle. Question is, with which Ardbeg should I begin? BTW, really like the head-to-head format you guys use from time to time.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks gabriel. The basic Arbeg is a great place to start. If you can find a bottle of the Dark Cove it was delicious.

[@musicmymusic2323]

My top two, yep 👍 I

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Definitely

[@rubiconwhiskey7135]

Scott I am like you I lean more to the Sherry flavor scotches but would likes to try to get into the peats. With this being said would either one of these the best choice or do you have another suggestion to bring to the table.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

maybe start with the Islay Mist 8 year blend we just reviewed. Or the Laphroaig 10 also.

[@kc-vf4lp]

Ardbeg 10 all day!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Boom

[@interferencedoctor]

Have you guys ever gone out on a limb and created your own blend?? Equal portions of both the fine whiskeys you have there would be a good blend. I have done this before with other whiskies and it worked very well.......keep up the good videos.....

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks David. We've had that suggested before and we've talked about it. Deep down I think I'm (bart) a little nervous that I will ruin two good bottle.

[@interferencedoctor]

O No,,,,,just do a small mix in your glass.....

[@brettphipps1711]

Doing this vs. tonight! Excited!!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Yes! EPIC. Let us know how it turns out.

[@brettphipps1711]

Scotch Test Dummies - so I chose Laphroaig 10, though I might not have that same opinion on another night! Both spectacular!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

I lean towards the Laph 10 also. Scott

[@user-nb8mr2fr6y]

I would’ve liked to have seen the Lagavulin 16 thrown into this mix just to see how it fairs, I’ve yet to find a video review with all three. Great vid nonetheless. Cheers.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

that would be a good comparison.

[@SKinnyPete93]

Very surprised you guys find the Laphroaig to be sweeter than the Ardbeg.. Laphroaig 10 is my favourite scotch because I don't get much sweetness, I get more savoury & salty notes. Wheras I get way too much of a citrus sweetness with the Ardbeg on the palate and I don't like it at all. But to each their own, maybe my taste buds are a bit messed up..

[@ScotchTestDummies]

definitley everyone has their own palate!

[@franklampard6316]

Good comments regarding color, Dummies. I much prefer natural color even though I can't claim to tell the difference between whisky with colorant versus the non.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

i think very few can.

[@steveh.3370]

Laphroaig claims the e150 caramel coloring does not affect the taste.

[@wildernessman760]

I often come back to videos like this one. Can you bring the Ardbag 10 from 46% down to 43% of Lephroig 10. To see if they become more close on pallet? Or will that not work?

[@ScotchTestDummies]

For me (bart) the difference from 43 to 46 is not the difference in overall effect between the two. It isn't the strength it is the nuance and character...but I do prefer Cask Strength in all my whiskies.

[@wildernessman760]

When you said not as strong of a smoke type. I believe yoo meant maybe like the flavors you get from a nice cigar as you let the smoke role around in your mouth.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

good description.

[@einthedog]

Colored glass is also a protection against light maybe? Back in the days

[@ScotchTestDummies]

we think so too.

[@SpyvsSpy-yl9ip]

TWO PEATY TENS BABY !! I'm getting the whole fam peated out of their minds this Thanksgiving !! Get smoked fam!!!! Yeah!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

yeah baby smoke em if you got em!

[@elfarinn]

Watching this one again. Ever thought about doing a Islay whisky shootout between 10/12 year old ones?

[@ScotchTestDummies]

haven't thought about doing that one.

[@Mr.M1STER]

The Ardbeg 10 is uncoloured. The Ardbeg has a fantastic, natural colour. The Laphroaig is coloured so I have no comment on the colour of the Laphroaig just like I have no comment on any coloured whisky because the coloured whiskies all look the same.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

right on Mr. Mister.

[@stevewalther9965]

Ardbeg for me... I can't wait to see the last Jedi....

[@ScotchTestDummies]

arrrrrrdbeg. a pirates favorite whisky!

[@stevewalther9965]

Scotch Test Dummies I wonder if you can buy peat from Scotland...I would roll in it...

[@believablebaker]

Inspiring me to go and do likewise...I've never had them head-to-head, either. For that matter, I don't think I've had the Laphroaig 10 in a few years (I usually go for the cask strength, too). I'm really enjoying the versus format, btw; any others in the works?

[@ScotchTestDummies]

cannot confirm nor deny any future shows!

[@SethWilson]

Ardbeg blows Laphroaig out of the water for me. Laphroaig has a much more medicinal, almost gasoline, nose and palate for me. Ardbeg is intense, but smooth all the way through.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

👍

[@TheOriginalRaster]

That was pretty good! Made me want to pull out my two bottles and taste them along with you. I checked the time (here) It's 9:30 AM... guess I can't do that.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Only if you're retired.

[@Cypeq]

That's a clash of titans, heroes will fall people will die and nobody will be really victorious after such a battle. Don't versus whiskies ;-) what's not mentioned, are the flaws... and rightfully so because these are some flawless whiskies.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Thanks Cypeg!

[@Cypeq]

thanks to you, nice video. I usually buy/open islay bottles back to back and tend to do this type of comparisons too. Can't pick winners... I have to give it to laphroiag, ardbeg and lagavulin.... huge smoke but also huge complexity and proper development from start to finish. Just brilliant stuff. I'm a tcp addict for sure since the first sip.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Like you say, both great whiskies! We should do a review of Ardbeg, Laphroaig, and Lagaulin together.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

BINGO BABY!!! Bart

[@Cypeq]

maybe make run of the mill through popular islays, including all standard issue/flagship bottling ? Giving notes on what stands out. That can be entertaining and helpful. I'd extend it to bunnahabin 12and caol ila 12 and probably some bowmore plus whatever else strikes you fancy.

[@micojoia]

i don't really know why i watch these videos on peated islay drams...i get hugely turned off by excessive smokiness...Never tasted it but im guessing the ardbeg is a fireplace gone dead...i guess ill stick to my balvenie triple cask.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Well you can't go wrong with the Balvenie that's for sure. Try a little Compass Box Peat monster when you get a chance. It's very nice.

[@toddstevens6608]

Go slowly into Peated scotch whisky. Compass Box Great King Street Glasgow Blend is not overwhelming, butyyou definitely know there's smoke in it.

[@4cooey]

Hey, did Bart have cookies for breakfast today lol. Must have been all the peat that had him pumped up.

[@SgtBart]

Chocolate chunk with extra brown sugar. Whole dozen. With that and the peat I'm in heaven. Bart

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Bart does get a little excited!

[@jasonbraun]

You failed to mentioned how long the bottles have been opened. In particular, the peattends to mellow the longer the bottle has been opened, which might describe why you weren't getting much peat on the nose.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

Interesting. From Bart. My peated bottles never tend to linger open for more then 3 months. Both of these I think were around 2 months.

[@alansmithee4895]

Ardbeg is lighter & gentler than Laph10. More wood in the Ardbeg. Laph is artificially colored whereas, Ardbeg is not.

[@ScotchTestDummies]

I find Ardbeg more ash tray smoke. But watch our 16 bottle peat shootout

[@douglasnicol1872]

woof haha brilliant!!!

[@ScotchTestDummies]

😁

[@PradeepRaajkumar1981]

I love both of them