Lagavulin 200th Anniversary Double Matured 16 Year Islay Single Malt Scotch Whiskey

Lagavulin 200th Anniversary Double Matured 16 Year Islay Single Malt Scotch Whiskey 43%-ABV, 750ml bottle.

About Lagavulin:

Lagavulin is a historic Scottish distillery located on the south coast of the Isle of Islay, positioned between its famous neighbors, Laphroaig and Ardbeg. It is widely considered one of the definitive Islay malts, renowned for an intensely smoky, peaty, and rich flavor profile that often serves as a benchmark for the region.

 

Key Characteristics & Production

• Flavor Profile: Typical expressions feature a deep, pungent smoke often compared to a seaside bonfire, coal embers, or Lapsang Souchong tea. This is balanced by notes of dried fruit, brine, and a lingering sweetness.
• The "Slow" Method: Lagavulin is famous for having one of the slowest distillation processes in Scotland. Its pear-shaped stills are filled high to minimize copper contact, preserving the heavy, smoky phenolic compounds that give the whisky its characteristic weight and depth.
• Water & Peat: The distillery draws water from the Solum Lochs, which flows through peat bogs on its way to the distillery, contributing to the spirit's unique taste.

   

Core & Notable Expressions

The distillery maintains a premium core range, often leading with older age statements than its peers.

 

• Lagavulin 16 Year Old: The flagship expression and a global icon. It is celebrated for its balance of heavy peat smoke and refined oak influence.
• Lagavulin 8 Year Old: Originally a limited 200th-anniversary release in 2016, its popularity led to it becoming a permanent part of the core range. It is known for being lighter, more vibrant, and fiercely smoky.
• Distillers Edition: A double-matured version finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, which adds a rich, syrupy sweetness to the smoky base.
• Offerman Edition: A collaboration with actor Nick Offerman (famous for his character Ron Swanson’s love of the brand), featuring unique finishes like Guinness stout or Caribbean rum casks.

   

History & Legacy

• Origins: While officially founded by John Johnston in 1816, records indicate illicit distilling occurred on the site as early as 1742.
• The "Malt Mill" Legend: In the early 20th century, distillery owner Sir Peter Mackie famously built a replica distillery (Malt Mill) at Lagavulin in an unsuccessful attempt to copy the style of neighboring Laphroaig.
• Cultural Status: Lagavulin has earned a cult following in pop culture, most notably as the favorite drink of Ron Swanson in the TV series Parks and Recreation.