Distillery/Brand: Lagavulin
Region: Islay
ABV: 43%
Colour: Young Sauternes

Nose: 23
Taste: 22
Finish: 22
Balance: 23

Review
I like Lagavulin. It was one of the whiskies – yes, the 16 year old – that captured my attention and thrust me down this road. And for that I am forever grateful. As an Islay malt I respect it’s decision to remain understated and not let peaty theatrics overwhelm the fundamental flavors.

Nose: Gentle undulation of soft peat, warm honey oranges and lemon drops followed by a touch of fruity cherry and barely smoked fig. The nose is soft yet robust. Like resting your face on a sponge cake.

Palate: The palate is true which is commendable. The dark honey and chocolate oranges are given a nice cinnamon sprinkle with a mist of lemon lozenge. The restraint continues.

Finish: The finish is lovely. Cinnamon and grated ginger with that soft cherry again.

Quite a beautiful spirit, this. For it to be truly sublime I think another 3% ABV would have been marvelous. But I guess we’ll never know.

Rating: 90