Lagavulin 22 Year (2020 Islay Jazz Festival)

Occasionally, the stars align, granting me the chance to sample exceptional, renowned whiskies that are typically scarce. This is the situation with the 2020 Islay Jazz edition from Lagavulin, the 22-year-old bottling. For a "Laga" with that age statement, my expectations rise considerably. I anticipate something beyond simple or average; it must be extraordinary to meet my standards. Dispatched at 52.6% ABV, its production was limited to just 2004 bottles. Upon nosing, my immediate reaction was: wow, oranges with peat! Cigarette, ashtray. Tangerine peel. Lotion. An amazing, astringent aroma. A perfect score. The palate begins slightly thin, then explodes with flavor, featuring vanilla, herbal notes, spices, peat, and smoke. It leaves an atomic aftertaste, a blend of herbal, smoky, and orange notes. Incredible. Ultimately, it fulfilled its purpose. This dram was perfect. Among the most astonishing Lagavulins I've ever had, and I've sampled many spectacular ones. Complex, robust, flavorful, peaty, fruity – it possesses everything. I cannot justify deducting any points; it would be unfair to such a fine product. My rating is 100 out of 100.