Scotland, 56.5%
THE LION'S FIRE
As our fable goes,The King of Islay,seen upon the crest of Lagavulin,was no ordinary feline but a lion rampant who prowled the grounds of an Islay castle,a fresh victor,intense in power and pride.This brooding and battle-worn beast won its crown through flame and ferocity - andcame to represent one of Scotland's most fiery distilleries.
From Islay's history of fierce competition emerged a taste triumphant.One of the oldest distilleries on the island.Lagavulin's early leader James Logan Mackie and his unrelenting nephew Peter J.Mackie,known as "Restless Pete'', were renowned for going the extra mile in the name of achieving powerful flavour.That tenacious spirit can be taste in every sip of this legendary dram.
Deceptive with its inviting golden hue,at first taste this rare beast growls gently,teasing with lemon,salty-sweetness and roasted tea.Intense blackened wood stalks the palate before a long,warm and dry finish,roaring with chili pepper and great waves os smoke.A classic Lagavulin 12,striking in every way:The King of Islay,in his prime.
Nose: The smoke is quite restrained, maritime with distant bonfires and lime. Just a little hint of bacon Frazzles.
Palate: Black pepper, saline and wood smoke, a little wood tannin and then some sweeter toffee notes.
Finish: Black pepper, smoke and salt with that citrus note coming back in.
