Whisky Review/Tasting: Lagavulin Distiller's Edition 1997 / 2013

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Lagavulin Distillery, located on the south coast of Islay, Inner Hebrides, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Double maturation process; initially in ex-bourbon casks followed by Pedro Ximénez sherry casks from southern Spain.
Age Statement: 16 years old, distilled in 1997 and bottled in 2013.
Color & Bottle Design: The whisky's color is not explicitly described, but the bottle design has changed from black to a combination of green and blue, which the host does not favor. The bottle features gold printing, engravings, and two labels (front and back) with an extra sealing on top.

Balance of Flavors: A complex mix of strong peaty aroma softened by the sweet and fruity character of Pedro Ximénez sherry and oakiness from the cask.
Unique Characteristics: The double maturation process adds depth, combining smokiness with sherry notes, dark fruits like raisins or plums, a medicinal note reminiscent of iodine, and a warm spiciness with hints of dark chocolate, red oranges, and a slight bitterness. The flavor evolves to reveal vanilla and less fruitiness after the first taste.
Comparison: The flavor profile is distinct from the standard 16-year-old Lagavulin, with the differences between vintages being less pronounced than those between different distilleries.

Anecdotes: The host, Horst Luening, expresses a personal preference for the whisky, despite not favoring the bottle's new design. He shares his experience with different vintages of the Distiller's Edition, noting that while there are differences, they are not as significant as those between different distilleries.

Significance: Islay whiskies are renowned for their peaty aroma, with Lagavulin being one of the most famous and widely sold single malt whiskies globally. The double maturation process, incorporating Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, adds a unique layer to the traditional Islay profile.

"This one is one of my favorites, so be careful. I like it."
"The strong and peaty aroma of the Lagavulin single malt whisky is mixed with a sweet and fruity character of the Spanish sherry and the oakiness of the cask."
"It's always interesting to taste a new vintage."

Lagavulin Distiller's Edition 1997 / 2013 is a 16-year-old single malt Scotch whisky from Islay, featuring double maturation in ex-bourbon and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks.
The flavor profile is complex, blending peaty and smoky notes with the sweetness of sherry, dark fruits, medicinal notes, and a warm spiciness.
The whisky's cultural significance is tied to its Islay heritage and the unique double maturation process.
Expert opinion by Horst Luening highlights a personal preference for the whisky's flavor over its bottle design and emphasizes the interesting variations between vintages.

Peat Lovers: Individuals who appreciate the peaty and smoky characteristics typical of Islay whiskies.
Sherry Cask Enthusiasts: Those who enjoy the rich, sweet flavors imparted by sherry cask maturation.
Experienced Whisky Drinkers: Connoisseurs looking for complex, well-balanced whiskies with depth and evolving flavors.
Collectors: Whisky collectors interested in exploring different vintages of a renowned distillery's special editions.