Lagavulin Distillers Edition 2006 - 43%

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The Distillers Edition series from Diageo takes some of their best known single malts and gives them a new twist through cask finishing.

From the Lagavulin website:

2006 Lagavulin double-matured in ex-bodega Pedro Ximenez cask wood for an intense, raisiny sweetness that marries beautifully with the smoky power of the regular release to create a massive, rich tasting power-house of a malt. 

Part of our 2021 Distillers Edition range. Limited quantities worldwide.

Tasting notes: 

Appearance: Copper gold, form is a thick line which gradually falls as thick, oily legs.

Nose: Dried fruit, sultanas, raisins and goji berries bring sweetness and combine with vanilla, malt extract, bonfire ash and robust, slightly tarry peat.

Palate: Full, almost chewy in character, dried fruits are abundant along with lemon citrus, stewed apricots, dark toffee, toasted almonds, sea salt and slightly medicinal smoke.

Finish: Sweet, peat smoke with lingering toffee and dried fruits.

Summary: This is an expression I’ve had on several occasions in the past and one I’ve always enjoyed. On a recent tasting session at the distillery this was the dram which stood out and, for me anyway, the only one which showed the typical Lagavulin character. 

Rich, gently phenolic Islay peat meets sweet, sticky Pedro Ximenez sherry to create a delightful, perfectly balanced symphony on the tongue. Neither element dominates, instead they work together to provide layer upon layer of complexity.

Priced around the £90-£100 mark so it’s not a cheap whisky but if you’re a fan of the core range 16 year old expression and looking for something a little different, this is well worth seeking out.

If you would like to know more about Lagavulin, the distillery and their whiskies, follow the link to the company website.