After my Distillers Edition 1995-2000 verticale, it has been a while since I tried new versions from Lagavulin.
I’m wondering whether the Lagavulin Distillers Edition is moving away from its yearly release scheme. You see, the label used to have a mention like lgv 4/510 but since 2022 a new label was introduced and there’s no indication of the batch any more. Even the vintage (and confirmed age) have disappeared. That means it no longer qualifies as the ‘extra matured’ Lagavulin 16 Year Old.
Lagavulin Distillers Edition (43%, OB 2022, PX seasoned American oak finish)
Nose: I love how the sherry seems to amplify the smoke. Not that it’s the most smoky whisky around, but it gives it a more sooty character. Lacquered meat on the barbecue, hints of toffee and a herbal syrup. Dark bramble. Later it becomes more tart and it seems to thin out. A more vinous aroma comes out, as well as some iodine and olive brine.
Mouth: fairly accessible and light, still a little vinous, but it does show a nice smokiness too. Lapsang tea, earthy liquorice, hints of dark chocolate. Then some grassy notes appear (slightly less impressive) with leather and roasted coffee. Also dried seaweed and a lightly acrid, medicinal and peppery note.
Finish: medium long, with more of the medicinal ashes and sweet malty notes. Hints of baked apples and autumn leaves, with a fine bitter edge.
Quite a nice dram, I still consider myself a fan of this Distillers Edition. However the combination of a low strength, little information and a high price make it harder to recommend. Available from The Whisky Exchange or Whiskysite.nl for instance.