Whisky Review/Tasting: Lagavulin Cask Strength 12 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Matured for 12 years, details on specific cask types used are not provided, but it's suggested that refill casks are predominantly used, likely with no sherry casks, to preserve the distillery's character.
Age Statement: 12 years.
Color: Light gold.
Clarity: Moderate beading, suggesting a light body.
Bottle Design: The specific design for the 2015 release isn't described, but it's noted that the bottle on display is from 2013 due to limited availability.

Balance of Flavors: A fine balance of cereal sweetness, sharpness, and dry volcanic smoke, complemented by citrus and mint.
Unique Characteristics: Noted for its expressive, energetic, and self-assured profile with a clean, fresh, maritime aroma and a direct, full-on Islay flavor.
Comparison: The reviewer prefers the Lagavulin Distillers Edition for its "sweet medicine of the sea" profile, suggesting a richer, more complex flavor compared to the 12-year-old cask strength version.

Anecdotes: The reviewer shares personal visits to Islay and insights into the pronunciation of "Isla," reflecting on the Gaelic heritage and its diminishing presence in Scotland.

Islay's Influence: The whisky embodies the quintessential Islay characteristics of peat smoke and maritime notes, with the distillery's use of clear spring water highlighted as a key factor in its quality.
Historical Note: A mention of the spirits receiver and the tradition of distillery workers wearing suits, contrasting with the modern image of blue-collar workers.

"An expressive, energetic and self-assured Lagavulin with a clean, fresh, maritime aroma and a direct, full-on Islay flavor."
"The typical Lagavulin is colored artificially even if it's not written on the bottle."
"I would prefer the 16 years old of course and even more I like the Lagavulin Distillers Edition."

Lagavulin Cask Strength 12 years is a single malt Scotch whisky from Islay, matured for 12 years primarily in refill casks.
It features a light gold color and a flavor profile marked by a balance of cereal sweetness, sharpness, and smoky notes, with unique characteristics of citrus and mint.
The whisky is part of Diageo's 2015 special release, with limited availability making it a sought-after edition among collectors.
The reviewer shares personal anecdotes and insights into Islay's whisky culture and expresses a preference for the Lagavulin Distillers Edition over the 12-year-old cask strength version.

Peat Lovers: Individuals who enjoy the intense smoky flavors characteristic of Islay whiskies will appreciate the Lagavulin Cask Strength 12 years.
Collectors: Given its limited release and unique characteristics, this whisky is a must-have for collectors seeking to complete or enhance their Islay collections.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a developed palate for Scotch whisky might find the complexity and balance of flavors in this expression particularly rewarding.
Fans of Cask Strength Whisky: Individuals who prefer the intensity and unadulterated flavors of cask strength whiskies will likely enjoy this Lagavulin release.