Whisky Review/Tasting: Lagavulin 25 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Lagavulin Distillery, Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation: Matured in sherry casks, a mix of first and second fill. The whisky is cask strength.
Age Statement: 25 years.
Color and Clarity: Deep-colored.
Bottle Design: Features the names of the founder, craftsmen, master distillers, and managers who shaped Lagavulin. It includes a golden signature emblem of Lagavulin's lion. The bottle is part of a limited edition of 8,000, celebrating the distillery's 200th anniversary.

Balance of Flavors: Complex, dark, and well-rounded with a balance between smoky, fruity, and sweet notes.
Unique Characteristics: The peat smoke is described as not too intense but complex and dark, with a creamy, oily texture. The flavor profile includes charred wood, honey, burnt treacle tart, wood smoke ash, salt, subtle chili-like heat, and cooling mint.
Comparison: The flavor is more rounded and less drying than other expressions, with a full range of smoke-blackened peat notes offset by ripe fruits, minty freshness, and sweet cereal.

Distillery Renovation: In 2015, Lagavulin renovated its facilities, including painting the stills and hatches black, in preparation for its 200th anniversary in 2016.
Founding Story: Lagavulin was founded in 1816 by John Johnson, with an interesting anecdote about two illegal distilleries merging into one legal entity.

Historical Context: The founding of Lagavulin is tied to significant historical events, such as the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. The distillery's 200th anniversary celebrates its long-standing presence and contribution to the Scotch whisky industry.

"It's very old, you can taste that it's very old but still it has a distinct smoky note and it shows it has power, it has alcohol but the alcohol is not disturbing." - This quote highlights the whisky's age, complexity, and smoothness despite its high alcohol content.

Lagavulin 25 years is a special release single malt Scotch whisky from Islay, matured in sherry casks.
The whisky is complex, with a well-rounded flavor profile that includes smoky, fruity, and sweet notes.
It celebrates Lagavulin's 200th anniversary, featuring a limited edition bottle design.
The distillery's history and renovation are part of its storytelling, adding depth to the whisky's identity.
Expert opinions praise the whisky's age, complexity, and smoothness.

For Whisky Collectors: The limited edition and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection.
For Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: The complex flavor profile and high age statement offer a sophisticated tasting experience.
For Fans of Peated Whisky: Those who appreciate a complex, well-rounded peat smoke will find this whisky particularly enjoyable.