Lagavulin 16 Yrs Old
43% ABV
$90-$100
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What the Distillery Says
Aged in oak casks for at least sixteen years, this much sought-after single malt has the massive peat-smoke that’s typical of southern Islay – but also offering a dryness that turns it into a truly interesting dram.
Region: A roaring bonfire from the coast of Islay.
Appearance: Deep amber gold.
Nose: Intensely flavoured, peat smoke with iodine and seaweed and a rich, deep sweetness.
Body: Full, rich bodied.
Palate: Dry peat smoke fills the palate with a gentle but strong sweetness, followed by sea and salt with touches of wood.
Finish: A long, elegant peat-filled finish with lots of salt and seaweed.
What Gary Says
Nose: Intense peat smoke, worn leather, cigar paper, creosote, iodine, all on an musty, earthy foundation.
Palate: Sweet peat notes with oak and honey to start, before nutty spice and a hint of bitter cocoa; subtle notes of celery.
Finish: Long and lovely, slowly drying with peat smoke and hints of pepper.
Comments: If you like peat, this is absolutely a ‘Must Try’. I’ll admit – I was surprised we hadn’t ever reviewed this – and upon that discovery set about to correct that oversight. A very well balanced pour – bold without being too aggressive. In fact, in terms of peaty single malts, I’d say this is the most seductive of the various Islay distillery’s standard bearers.