Whisky Review/Tasting: Lagavulin 24 y.o. Feis Ile 2015
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Lagavulin Distillery, Islay, Scotland.
- Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
- Distillation and Maturation Process: Triple matured, distilled in 1991.
- Age Statement: 24 years.
- Alcohol by Volume: 59%.
- Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but given the age, likely to have a rich hue.
- Bottle Design: Specific design details not mentioned, but it's a special edition for the Feis Ile 2015, implying a unique or commemorative design.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Nose: Minimal smoke, calm, with fruity notes reminiscent of wild berries. A hint of peat is also present.
- Palate: Smooth and round, with a peat cloud that fades into berry flavors. Lacks the earthy tone typically associated with Lagavulin.
- Finish: Very long, with lingering flavors even minutes after tasting.
- Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but noted for missing the earthy Lagavulin signature to some extent.
Whisky Storytelling
- The review takes place in the Dramming Room of the Lagavulin distillery, adding a unique setting to the tasting.
- The whisky is a special edition bottled for the Feis Ile (Islay Festival) of 2015, making it a rare and sought-after release.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Feis Ile: An annual festival on Islay celebrating whisky and local culture, where distilleries often release exclusive bottlings.
- Islay: Known for its peated whiskies, the island's distilleries have a global following among whisky enthusiasts.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "Almost got no smoke in the nose but very calm and some fruity more berry fruity like wild berries or like that."
- "Very smooth and round. Here comes a peat cloud and it fades out with berries."
- "I would love to see a 24-year-old expression of Lagavulin as a standard bottling."
Summary
- The Lagavulin 24 y.o. Feis Ile 2015 is a triple-matured, single malt Scotch whisky with 59% ABV, distilled in 1991.
- It offers a unique flavor profile with minimal smoke, fruity notes, and a smooth, peaty palate.
- This special edition was released for the Feis Ile 2015 and is highly limited, making it a rare find.
- The reviewer expresses a desire for Lagavulin to release a 24-year-old expression as a standard offering, despite acknowledging the limited stock.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- Whisky Collectors: Given its rarity and special edition status, this whisky is highly recommended for collectors.
- Peated Whisky Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate peated whiskies with a unique twist might find this expression particularly enjoyable.
- Experienced Whisky Drinkers: The complex flavor profile and high ABV make it suitable for seasoned whisky aficionados looking for something distinct.