Lagavulin 1999 The Distillers Edition (2015)

Lagavulin 1999 The Distillers Edition (2015), 16 YO, 43 %

I often go on about high ABV this and high ABV that. Yes, I happily admit I very often prefer a high ABV whisky, at least 46 % ABV or higher, and with no chill-filtration. But on occasion I do rave about a lower ABV whisky as well, just like the old jungle saying: Sometimes the Phantom walks the streets like a normal man. Anywho... Here's the Lagavulin 1999 The Distillers Edition (2015), that's batch for the nerds out there.

The Lagavulin 1999 The Distillers Edition (2015) is double matured in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. 

You can still pick up a bottle of this fine dram online at around GBP 75.

Nose: Deep, dark and mysterious! The PX casks contribute raisins, dates, figs and demerara notes. Then there is the lovely, sweet peatiness. And the bacon and smoked sausages - must not forget those. And the medicinal (iodine) and maritime notes lingering in the back. Barbecue on the beach, served with rich sherry and dried fruits.

Taste: Rich in sweetness at first, then it sort of switches gears and I find dry ashes and pepper. Amazingly it switches again and there's notes of fruit juices - citrus, melon and pineapple.

Finish: Medium long finish. The peatiness is back, mixed with the fruit juices. Milk chocolate with a touch of chilli. It sort of glides to a soft landing.

Comments: The nose is so complex and promising, while on the palate it certainly delivers a great experience, but it does fall a bit short of the expectations. All in all a great dram though.

Score (88/100)

Image from Master of Malt.

Sláinte! - Thomas