Lagavulin 12 Year Old from the 2021 Special Releases carries the name The Lion's Fire. Distilled in 2008, it spent its life in refill American oak and was bottled at 56.5% with natural colour, giving a fiery, maritime take on the Islay distillery.
About This Whisky
The 2021 Special Releases, put together by Diageo's Craig Wilson, used mythical creatures on the labels, and a burning lion was chosen for Lagavulin. Refill casks were picked so the wood would stay quiet and let the smoky, coastal spirit lead. Expect sea salt, smoky black tea, cocoa and dried seaweed, lifted by lemon.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Sea salt, smoky black tea, dried seaweed and lemon zest, with cracked pepper.
- Palate: Peppery and vegetal peat, malted biscuit, honey and vanilla, then clove and chilli.
- Finish: Long and warming, with bonfire ash and a lingering salty sweetness.
Serving & Food
Let the glass rest a moment after pouring, then taste neat before adding water in drops. Pair with charcoal-grilled squid, smoky char siu or a wedge of aged Gouda.
How to Enjoy
Drinkers who want Lagavulin at full power, and anyone putting together a set of the Special Releases.
Product Details
Distillery: Lagavulin (Diageo)
Age: 12 years old
Series: Special Releases 2021, The Lion's Fire
Distilled: 2008
Cask Type: Refill American oak
ABV: 56.5% (cask strength)
Region: Islay, Scotland
Category: Single malt Scotch whisky
Volume: 700mL
About the Distillery
Much of Lagavulin's modern reputation traces back to Peter Mackie, who worked at the distillery under his uncle and took control in 1890. Mackie made Lagavulin a key part of his White Horse blend, and it still plays that role today. In 1908 he built a second small distillery, Malt Mill, inside the grounds. When the still house was rebuilt in the 1960s, pear-shaped stills from Malt Mill were brought into Lagavulin. The distillery passed into the group that became Diageo.