Lagavulin 2005 Distillers Edition (Bottled 2020)

I usually enjoy the regular 16-year expression and was eager to sample this expression, which is apparently a finished iteration of the 16. Curiously, this one indicates "Distilled 2005 and Bottled 2020," totaling 15 years, not the usual 16. Oh well, 2020 was a peculiar year regardless. The aroma is characteristically Lagavulin, presenting nutty notes, black pepper, a hint of salty smoked meat, some iodine, followed by delightful, rich dark cooked fruit or raisin. The taste is sweet and exceptionally oily, featuring abundant raisin and plum, along with significant iodine/peat smoke. I also detect the nuttiness and black pepper from the aroma, plus some jalapeño and pickled ginger. The finish is extended, with persistent iodine and sweet cooked stone fruit, and a touch of sweet vanilla subtly present. This gradually evolves into a pleasant campfire smoke aroma that lingers subtly. Remarkable, this is quite excellent. Naturally, a direct comparison with the Lagavulin 16 was necessary. The standard 16 is also fantastic, but appears significantly brighter (in both hue and flavor) and slightly less refined next to the Distiller's Edition. The DE is simply richer, deeper, and smoother, with dark fruit characteristics, as anticipated from its finishing process. Both are superb, but I definitively favor the DE over the standard 16. Interestingly, the DE cost me about $30 less, I'm unsure why. Perhaps I was fortunate.

Nose: Clear Lagavulin peat and smoke, lighter floral notes that improve upon the 16, sweetness balances the oak, salty sea spray without any fishiness Nose after swirl: Caramel and ethanol emerge above the smoke, much sweeter Palate: Medium-thick mouthfeel, that Lagavulin campfire smoke comes through easily, surprisingly spicy for a 43%, medicinal floral notes like a fresh mint straight from the garden (thank you Amari for that note) Finish: not really dry at all, smoky mint comes through in the finish... doesn't change too much from the palate.

I generally really like Lagavulin's products, their 11 year Offerman edition (2019) was my favorite. After tasting this, it's hard to compare without a re-tasting of the 2019. This is 4 years older and is a bit smoother. I would buy this again any day If you get the chance to try this please do! Nose: strong peat and earth, a bit of sweetness and pepper Taste: smokey, peat, a bit of oil and vanilla After taste: long lasting taste, leaves you with a sweet smokey taste, similar to a very light cigar

This single malt scotch is superb, presenting pleasant fruity and rounded notes not found in the standard 16-year expression. Its availability where I live is poor due to trade policies and subsequent shipping disruptions. This dram has made it difficult to enjoy lesser spirits like Laphroaig 10; it's a significant letdown. Sigh.

Nose: the smoky peat like Lagavulin, yet layered with mint, orange peels, seaweed, and dark dried fruit notes Palate: spicy, opens up to fresh floral notes; hits you with sweet & smoky fruits, oily mouth feel Finish: vanilla and mint with butterscotch

I acquired the 2006-2021 edition, but it doesn't have its own entry on distiller yet. It's excellent! A very pleasant smokiness that stays a long time after tasting, yet is balanced by sweetness. Smooth and warming.