Lagavulin 1996 Distillers Edition

I like Lagavulin. It was one of the whiskies - yes, the 16 year old - that captured my attention and thrust me down this road. And for that I am forever grateful. As an Islay malt I respect it's decision to remain understated and not let peaty theatrics overwhelm the fundamental flavors.

The nose is a gentle undulation of soft peat, warm honey oranges and lemon drops followed by a touch of fruity cherry and barely smoked fig. The nose is soft yet robust. Like resting your face on a sponge cake.

The palate is true which is commendable. The dark honey and chocolate oranges are given a nice cinnamon sprinkle with a mist of lemon lozenge. The restraint continues.

The finish is lovely. Cinnamon and grated ginger with that soft cherry again.

Quite a beautiful spirit, this. For it to be truly sublime I think another 3% ABV would have been marvelous. But I guess we'll never know.

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