Lagavulin 24 Yo Feis Ile 2015

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.