Lagg New Make Spirit

Something different today, with a review of a new make spirit from the Lagg Distillery. Located at the south end of Arran, the distillery itself was only completed in 2019 with building work onsite still ongoing. As such, this new make is currently the only opportunity we will get to see what lies in store from a distillery built specifically to produce heavily peated malt whiskies. Lagg promises to be experimental in its approach, including exploring the effect of different types of peat on the spirit. Exciting times lie ahead.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Clear and almost colourless, viscous lines which eventually fall as thin legs

Nose: If you’ve ever visited a distillery, this will immediately transport you back there. The characteristic aroma of sweet malt is there in abundance, on this occasion bolstered with a generous helping of peat smoke.

Palate: Lovely mouthfeel, the spirit coats the palate in a warm, smoky blanket. Creamy, rice pudding, a hint of spicy heat, intertwined with mild citrus and orchard fruit. A rich layer of sweet peat smoke adds to the overall complexity. 

Finish: Long and sweet with campfire smoke lingering over the palate. The warmth you would expect from a new make bottled at 63.5% abv is there, but surprisingly subtle.

Summary: If this new make spirit offers an insight into what is to come from Lagg Distillery, I’m genuinely excited for their future. The distillery promises heavy peat and this really delivers, but it’s no one-trick pony. The delightful creamy mouthfeel and subtle sweetness provide layers of complexity and make for a really satisfying dram despite its obvious youth. 

The first whisky bottlings are due in 2022 and, if this new make spirit is any indication, the future looks very bright for the distillery. 

If you would like more information on Lagg distillery, follow the link to the company website.