Beer O'Clock: Not Your Average Wee Heavy

I have never had an Innis & Gunn ale that I didn't like.

And when it comes to Scottish whisky, there's no hesitation when I'm asked my favourite: Laphroaig.

So when these two top-tier brewers and distillers collaborated in a limited-edition brew, you just know that I'm going to seek it out.

I searched the LCBO Web site to find the nearest shop that stocked this wee heavy that was aged in 10-year-old Quarter Cask Laphroaig oak, hoping that my friendly neighbourhood shop would have some. But the closest location was 20 minutes away, in the Fairlawn Centre on Carling Avenue.

Not wanting to take any chances, I cleared the shelf.

Let's take a look, shall we?

Islay Whisky Cask (7.4% ABV)
Innis & Gunn
Edinburgh, Scotland

Appearance: pours a brownish-red that reminded me of a dark maple syrup. The taupe head started thin and was quickly reduced to a loose lace.

Nose: I'd know the smell of Laphroaig anywhere. There were distinct notes of oak, smoke, and peat, with added caramel and ripe prunes.

Palate: more whisky, mixed with vanilla and burnt toffee. There's a rich maltiness and full body, with a smoky finish. There's a bit of booziness to it but it's not overpowering: it provides a fine balance between whisky and ale.

Overall impression: this is the best wee heavy that I've ever had. It shows Innis & Gunn at its best, with the added richness of Laphroaig. This ale will keep you warm on a cool autumn evening.

When I first started drinking whisky, I was reading an Ian Rankin detective novel, and the main character, Inspector John Rebus, was drinking Laphroaig. So, sitting in the Manx Pub, on Elgin Street, I ordered a glass of this Islay malt and a pint of oatmeal stout, and nursed both of them while I read.

There was something about enjoying a whisky and a stout at the same time that was highly satisfying. And sipping this Islay Whisky Cask beer was very much a reminder of those days, sitting in the Manx, before a Toastmasters meeting.

This Scotch ale is magnificent.

Beer O'Clock rating: 🍺🍺🍺

Find this ale (it comes in a two-pack) at the LCBO while supplies last: in other words, before I find it first.

Cheers!