Lagavulin Distillers Edition 2022

Nose: Highly aromatic with notes of smoky tea, leather, beef broth, and a faint creosote scent, yet it possesses a distinct floral quality to the phenols, clearly distinguishing notes of apple blossom, pears, and red berries. Diluting it highlights both the mild peat smoke and the floral fragrances equally. 85/100 Palate: The initial taste is sweet, with the PX sherry casks being more noticeable than on the nose, presenting flavors of apple, pear, vanilla, and toffee. Smoke intensifies during the experience, bringing forth a leafy, briny tobacco note alongside light fruitcake and orange water. The texture has a pleasing weight and can handle a bit of water, though just a couple of drops are enough to enhance it. 86/100 Finish: Medium/Long. It starts sweet, resembling cough syrup. Stewed fruit and malt extract are present, and towards the end, it transitions to a satisfying briny dryness. 86/100 For 27 years, this annual release of PX-finished Lagavulin 16, from 1995 onward, proudly featured a vintage statement and release code. However, this 2022 edition was the first to be released without a vintage designation and as non-vintage NAS. Does this imply it's no longer at least 16 years old? Likely, which is somewhat unfortunate, but how does it impact the profile? In my view, not significantly, as this edition appears very similar to those from the previous decade, and I believe it has gradually become sweeter, fruitier, and less phenolic over time. My first instinct is to criticize the removal of the age statement, but I can't help but feel this Lagavulin expression has been slowly developing a soft elegance that truly suits the spirit. Throughout the 1990s and into the early 2000s, Lagavulin 16 year old was one of my preferred whiskies, but for the past two decades, I've noticed a consistent decline in phenols and character (many will disagree, but I believe they are mistaken 😉). In contrast, I was never a big admirer of this Distillers Edition, but I'm finding myself liking it more and more. Perhaps the whisky is changing, or perhaps I am. Maybe it's both. Who can say? What I do know is that this is an excellent whisky that I would recommend. Tasted at Lagavulin Distillery as part of a post-tour flight, April 17, 2025 “Very Good”: 86/100 (4 stars)

Smells like scorched hide and a cigar. Balanced, with smoky, sour fruit, grilled meat, and a hint of leather. I prefer the 16, but this is enjoyable.

There's something not quite right with this one. I apologize, but I can't pinpoint what it is. However, I'd happily return to the standard 16-year.

Smells of cherrywood, is pungent, with hints of smoked bacon and candied fruit.

Notes of toffee and salt.