Created with passion and skill since 1816, this iconic Lagavulin celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2016 and is for many the pinnacle of Islay malts; intense in flavour, smoky and rich. It’s quite a legacy to carry in a bay from which the sons of Somerled, Lord of the Isles, sailed to war; a bay guarded still by his ruined castle, Dunyvaig. Barley malted over local peat smoke imbues Lagavulin with its rich mix of shoreline airs and scented, smoky dryness. Here’s a whisky so intense it turns away the cold. Lagavulin’s special editions and older releases are vanishingly rare and highly sought after.
Nose
Deep and expressive, as aromas of dark oak and raisins dowsed in liquor reveal the sweet wine cask, and restrain the eager peat, wrapping fragrant smoke in grounded notes of oak and wine. In time the smoke rises, as if to reflect the unquenchable intensity within.
Taste Notes
A natural strength, oily and sweet-spicy to start, the sweetness fully integrated and never cloying, delivering a fruity, raisin-sweet smokiness throughout that is rich in dark intent and roasted malt alike. The smokiness intensifies as the peat asserts itself. Saltiness joins it, the whole becoming drying, with a hint of espresso coffee grounds. The rich sweetness is beautifully integrated with the smoke, salt and spice. The Finish is very long and smoky; delightfully warming in its deep, dark oak-spiciness. Lingering smoke in the aftertaste.
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