Description

Lagavulin Aged 8 Years Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml           ABV: 48%           Age: 8 Years Old           Country: Scotland

Lagavulin in Gaelic means ‘the mill in the hollow’. This distillery was the first distillery on Isaly to start to operate legally after many years of illegal distilling on the isalnd. It was officially opened in 1816 by John Johnston who was a member of a local illegal distilling clan. The making of this whisky usually occurs slowly. The barley is smoked with peat longer than usual and the whisky is generally left to mature for 16 years before it’s ready to be bottled. The distillery is both old and modern and sits beside the ruins of Dunyvaig Castle near Port Ellen which was at one time home to the ‘Lord of the Isles’. This distillery is linked with its whisky being mellow, peaty, smoky and full bodied.

The Lagavulin 8 Year Old is a vibrant and intensely smoky expression that captures the spirit of Lagavulin at a more youthful age than its iconic 16 Year Old sibling. Released to commemorate the distillery’s 200th anniversary in 2016, its popularity quickly cemented its place as a permanent fixture in the core range. This age statement highlights a lively, energetic side of Lagavulin, allowing the raw power of its spirit to shine through. Primarily matured in a combination of refill American oak hogsheads. These casks allow the powerful Lagavulin spirit to take centre stage, letting its peat, fruit, and maritime notes develop without being overshadowed by intense wood influence. Bottled at a robust 48% alc/vol, a strength that perfectly amplifies its bold character. It is non-chill filtered and has natural colour, ensuring maximum flavour retention and a pristine presentation.

Our Tasting Notes

This Lagavulin aims for a direct, powerful, and vibrant hit of its classic character, showcasing its youthful vigour and complex layers.

Nose: An immediate burst of Lagavulin’s signature peat smoke, often described as bonfire embers, charred wood, and a hint of medicinal iodine. This robust smoke is beautifully interwoven with bright notes of green apples, citrus zest, and an underlying sweetness of vanilla and malted barley. A distinct coastal brininess is also present.

Palate: Full-bodied and wonderfully oily, it coats the mouth with a powerful yet balanced profile. The smoky peat is upfront and assertive, quickly followed by a lively sweetness of ripe orchard fruits and pineapple. Notes of black pepper, warming chilli flakes, and a pronounced maritime saltiness emerge, creating a complex interplay of flavours that is both intense and refreshing.

Finish: Long, warming, and profoundly smoky. The signature Lagavulin peat lingers for an extended period, accompanied by a pleasant sweetness, sea salt, and a dry, spicy oak character. It leaves a truly memorable and invigorating impression of Islay.

This whisky is a superb choice for peat lovers who appreciate Lagavulin’s distinctive character and are looking for a more direct, vibrant, and energetic expression.