Lagavulin 8 Years | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Lagavulin, Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured for 8 years, showcasing a lighter color indicative of refill charred casks used, suggesting minimal cask influence.
Age Statement: 8 years.
ABV: 48%.
Color and Clarity: Described as having the color of white wine, Gavi de Gavi, indicating a very light appearance.
Bottle Design: Features a sketch of Alfred Bernard, a famous whisky writer from the 19th century, along with a quote from his book on the distilleries of the United Kingdom.

Balance of Flavors: Presents a balance between smokiness and fruitiness with less cask influence compared to the 16-year-old Lagavulin.
Unique Characteristics: Noted for its smoothness, with a citrus note, maritime smoky aroma, and a hint of maltiness. The smokiness is present but not dominant, with an estimated peat level of 35 to 40 ppm.
Comparison: Less smoky and with sharper notes compared to older expressions like the 16-year-old Lagavulin, which has smoother notes due to oxidation.

Anecdotes: Introduced in 2016 for the 200th anniversary of Lagavulin, inspired by Alfred Bernard's visit to the distillery in the 19th century. The reviewer, Horst Luening, recalls being introduced to this whisky at Blair Castle while receiving his Keeper of the Quaich status.
Trivia: The original 8-year-old release for the anniversary had a special label, which has since been replaced with a standard signature label for this whisky.

Historical Context: Lagavulin was founded in 1816, in a time when distillation on the Isles was influenced by the lord of the isles. The distillery has a rich history, including its connection to Alfred Bernard, who documented his visit and tasting of an 8-year-old Lagavulin in the 19th century.

Opinions: The reviewer appreciates the whisky's quality and considers it a bargain at its price point, especially given its higher alcohol content compared to the 16-year-old Lagavulin.
Quotes: "This is a very very light whisky showing that the casks are not only just eight years of age but as well a refill charred."

Lagavulin 8 Years is a single malt Scotch whisky with a light appearance and a balanced flavor profile of smokiness and fruitiness.
It was introduced in 2016 for the distillery's 200th anniversary, inspired by Alfred Bernard's historical visit.
The whisky is noted for its smoothness, maritime smoky aroma, and a hint of maltiness, with a peat level of 35 to 40 ppm.
It is considered a bargain at its price point, offering a higher alcohol content than the 16-year-old Lagavulin.

For Peat Lovers: Those who enjoy peaty whiskies but seek something with a slightly milder peat profile might find this expression appealing.
For Whisky Collectors: Collectors interested in whiskies with historical significance or unique stories behind their creation.
For Bargain Hunters: Individuals looking for high-quality whisky at a more accessible price point, especially compared to older expressions.
For Newcomers to Islay Whiskies: Newcomers might appreciate this as an introduction to Islay whiskies, offering a balance of smokiness without being overwhelmingly peaty.