11 yr previous expressions of Lagavulin have traditionally include one man’s identify hooked up: Nick Offerman. All 4 of the Offerman Version Lagavulins have been 11 yr previous choices, and no others that we’ve tasted.
Lagavulin 11 Years Previous Candy Peat isn’t a one-off however a brand new everlasting expression, aged fully in first-fill ex-bourbon casks. That’s the entire idea, actually, the concept the bourbon barrel is doing the heavy lifting of sweetening up the whisky past typical expectations. Lagavulin’s basic 16 yr previous expression is aged in each bourbon and sherry casks.
How does Lagavulin fare with a youthful age assertion and a singular barrel focus? Let’s discover.
Lagavulin 11 Years Previous Candy Peat Evaluation
If nothing else, Lagavulin Candy Peat is certainly a less complicated expression of the malt. The whisky, recognized for its daring complexity, is decidedly tamed this outing, eschews sharp edges for a rounded high quality on the nostril — the trademark ashy peat tempered by light-handed aromas of vanilla and milk chocolate. Some herbaceous notes ring the sides of the expertise, showcasing roasted rosemary and a few mint, however a very clear through-line dominates, making for a completely approachable Islay — maybe even one thing those that dislike peat could possibly get their arms round.
There’s a sure sweetness to the palate, although I’m unsure it’s ahead sufficient that’d I’d have chosen to place within the identify of the product. The general development is much like what the nostril presents, showcasing milk chocolate and vanilla backed up towards some tarry ash, with extra intricate notes of coconut and a few strawberry weaseling their method into the expertise past that. A lightweight layer of smoke — nothing overwhelming — permeates all the expertise, nevertheless it washes away ultimately to go away a wholesome punch of grated chocolate in its wake. The end is in any other case gently warming and evenly natural, once more with a reprise of mint and a faint whiff of contemporary pink flowers — possibly not what you’re anticipating in a glass of Lag, however enjoyable all the identical.
My colleague and Lagavulin professional Rob Theakston recommends mixing 1 half Lagavulin 16 with 3 elements of Candy Peat for the very best impact. I depart that mixture to the reader as an train.
86 proof.
B+ / $70 [BUY IT NOW FROM FROOTBAT]
Lagavulin 11 Years Previous Candy Peat
USD70
