If you know about peaty whisky, the name “Lagavulin 16 year old” is bound to cross your path. This single malt whisky has become a cult classic, often serving as the measuring stick for Islay peatiness.
It’s a perennial favourite among many of my whisky-loving friends, and today, I am delving into the intriguing world of Lagavulin 16 year old Islay single malt Scotch whisky.
Lagavulin 16 yo whisky, a cornerstone of the Islay scene, has long been celebrated for its distinctive character. My journey into the Lagavulin universe began with the Distillers Edition. Now, it’s time to acquaint myself with its iconic 16 yo counterpart.
Lagavulin is a historic distillery with centuries-old roots, situated in a picturesque bay along Islay’s south coast. The name “Lagavulin” translates from Gaelic to “Lag a’ Mhuilinn,” signifying the hollow of the mill.
Founded by local farmer John Johnston in 1816, it stands proudly within sight of Dunyvaig Castle. However, illicit distillation has been a covert art in these parts for much longer. For a deeper dive into Lagavulin’s rich history, check out the details in my Distillers Edition blog post.
Among Diageo’s “Classic Malts of Scotland,” a prestigious lineup with Cragganmore, Dalwhinnie, Glenkinchie, Oban, and Talisker, Lagavulin holds its own distinctive place. This distinction can be attributed to its meticulous distillation process involving slow distillation speeds and pear-shaped pot stills.
Lagavulin offers various expressions, including the Lagavulin 8 year old, the different Distillers Editions, luxurious 25 year old and 30 year old bottlings, and regular 12 year old releases. The Lagavulin 16 year old single malt whisky was aged in oak barrels and boasts a peat level of approximately 35 ppm.
Also Read: Tamnavulin Double Cask Whisky
REGION: Islay
ABV: 43%
COLOUR: Dark gold
NOSE: The nose has notes of liquorice, smoke, subtle hints of peat, and tantalizing fruity sweetness. Oak, iodine, and vanilla notes dance delicately in the background, creating a beautifully balanced olfactory experience.
PALATE: Dry oak and peat form the backbone, complemented by a gentle cherry sweetness and wisps of smoke. The medium body carries traces of iodine and tar. It is not very complex and somewhat one-dimensional.
FINISH: Lagavulin 16 year old whisky leaves you with a medium-length finish with lingering peatiness, hints of oak, and a touch of vanilla.
RATING: VERY GOOD
We exchanged slightly disappointed glances as I shared this Lagavulin moment with John. Our anticipation was high, yet the experience didn’t match the hype. While undoubtedly peaty with its signature smokiness and fruity undertones, Lagavulin 16 year old single malt lacked the depth and wow factor we had hoped for.
It displayed a few rough edges and didn’t quite live up to the impeccable balance promised by its nose. This particular bottle might be in my collection for an extended period.
The Lagavulin 16 year old Scotch is one of those whiskies that begs to be paired with a robust cheese. Imagine the intense flavours of Blue Stilton or Roquefort cheese intermingling with the peaty nuances of this Islay classic. It is a match made in heaven for any connoisseur.
In my ongoing series of side-by-side comparisons, I’ve ventured into a Lagavulin versus Ardbeg 10 yo whisky comparison as well as an Uigeadail versus Lagaulin comparison. Are you curious to see how these titans of Islay measure up against each other? Dive into the world of peat and flavour with my detailed analysis.
As you venture forth on your whisky journey, remember that Lagavulin 16 year old whisky is an essential stop on discovering the rich, smoky wonders of Islay single malt.
Whether it completely sweeps you off your feet or not, its legendary status is undeniable, making it an experience every whisky enthusiast should undertake.
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Perhaps the better way to think of Lagavulin is of someone approaching peated whisky for the first time? Also - think back to when Classic Malts was launched and how scarce single malt peated whisky was.
I think above is much of what makes Lagavulin what it is and how it is viewed.
For what its worth - the most popular pour on the distillery tour is a Smokey Cokey (Laga 16 with Coca-Cola) - more insight perhaps?
You and John are old peat drinkers - so likley well past Lagavulin 16 (remember it is also chill filtered and coloured).