Lagavulin 26 years 2021 Special Release 'The Lion's Jewel'

A gem from The King of Islay that is noble, generous and rare, but also understated yet rich in flavour with a subtle intensity.

This Lagavulin is a real gem that has been matured in first-fill Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks.

Tasting note

Nose

On the nose, a delicately woven oak aroma of great complexity unfolds, taking its time to reveal its individual secrets. Light, fresh and vinous with overtones that merge with the linseed oil of an artist's studio. These scents fade into a warm suggestion of sun bleached polished mahogany, supported by dry edible seaweed, with sweeter hints of baked fig and butterscotch. Further into the aroma, the scents become more intense, oily and fragrant smoky; like a fishing trip, with background aromas of tar rope and boat engine. A little water reduces the intensity, while a hint of clean linen lingers best.

Flavour

In the light, ultra-smooth and oily texture, a sweetness shimmers briefly, soon tinged with salt and pepper, becoming increasingly savoury and smoky. Here Lagavulin's precious sweet-smoky style comes through in a radiant, well-rounded form. A drop of water, not needed, still seems to enhance the harmony of flavours

Finish

Long, sweetly warming and slightly smoky, like smouldering beech leaves, with an aftertaste of chanterelle mushrooms. A drop of water introduces a little pepper, after which the smokiness reaffirms itself in the drying aftertaste.

Lagavulin Distillery

Lagavulin Distillery is located on the south coast of the island of Islay, overlooking the rugged coastline and Lagavulin Bay. Founded in 1816 by John Johnston, the distillery has built a rich history and a strong reputation as one of the most iconic Islay distilleries.

A specific feature of Lagavulin is the intense peat smoke that gives its whiskies a deep smoky character. The distillery is known for its slow distillation process in traditional copper pot stills, which creates a rich and complex flavour profile. The whisky is mainly matured in ex-bourbon casks and European oak sherry casks, which contributes to the full and layered flavours.

Lagavulin whiskies are loved for their powerful aromas of smoke, seaweed, salt, vanilla and dried fruit. The long, warm finish and perfect balance between smoke and sweetness make Lagavulin a favourite among whisky lovers. The combination of traditional methods, a unique location and a distinctive flavour profile makes Lagavulin an iconic name in the world of single malt whisky.