Lagavulin Distillers Edition Vintage Scotch Whisky

Lagavulin Distiller’s Edition is a compelling refinement of Islay tradition—its bold smoke tempered by honeyed PX sherry sweetness. The result is an approachable yet complex Scotch that’s richly layered, balanced, and worthy of savoring. A top-tier expression among sherry-finished Islays and a standout in Lagavulin’s lineup.

🧪 Origins & Finishing

Part of Lagavulin’s annual Distiller’s Edition, this bottling starts with their signature 16-year-old Islay malt. After maturation in traditional American and European oak, it's double-matured in Pedro Ximénez (PX) sherry casks, adding rich dried fruit sweetness to the bold peated core. It’s bottled at 43% ABV, non-age-stated in recent vintages, and highly awarded.

👃 Nose (Aroma)

The nose opens with robust peat smoke, softened by sherry sweetness, chocolate, and raisin notes. Subtle hints of coffee, sea breeze, and vanilla round out the aromatic profile, offering a complex balance of smoke and orchard fruit richness.

👅 Palate & Texture

• Palate: The sherry finish brings plum and raisin sweetness, layered over classic Islay peat and char. Additional flavors of espresso, dark chocolate, sea salt, and oak spice emerge with time.

• Texture: Medium-bodied and smooth, the whisky delivers a balanced mouthfeel—robust but refined, with smoke neatly integrated into fruit and malt notes.
  

🔁 Finish

The finish is long and warming, combining the lingering sweetness of PX sherry with maritime salt, ashy peat, and a touch of citrus peel and oak spice. It’s subtly smoky, crisply balanced, and deeply satisfying.

🌟 Highlights at a Glance

• ABV: 43%

• Peat: Present, less intense than core 16-Year but highly refined

• Sherry Influence: Deep raisin and dried fruit character from PX finish

• Style: A harmonious fusion of classic Lagavulin Islay smoke with rich sherry complexity

• Excellent neat, or paired with rich dishes like pecan pie or pâté