Lagavulin 8 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
The Lagavulin 8 Year Old was originally released in 2016 to commemorate the distillery's 200th anniversary, reviving a bottling style popularized in the 1880s. Its immediate success secured its place as a permanent fixture, standing proudly alongside the flagship 16 Year Old. Aged for a shorter period, the 8 Year Old is a purer expression of Lagavulin's intense, peated spirit. It is bolder, drier, and more aggressive than its older sibling. The characteristic heavy smoke from the peat fires dominates, but is beautifully balanced by a maritime, salty complexity. This is Islay at its most spirited and direct. The nose is immediately dominated by potent bonfire smoke, medicinal notes (iodine), and sea spray, followed by subtle hints of dried grass, lemon zest, and wood polish.The palate is powerful and surprisingly dry on entry, with a sharp blast of peat and black pepper. The youth brings a clarity to the palate, showcasing notes of tangy lemon, sea salt, and a fleeting sweetness of burnt toffee before the smoke returns. The finish is long, intense, and warming. The smoke lingers dramatically, drying out the palate with a final, pleasant peppery spice.