This was a special release for the 200th Anniversary of Lagavulin - the earliest mentions of Lagavulin refer to their 'exceptionally fine 8 year old whisky'. Lagavulin 8-year-old is matured in refill American oak barrels and was extremely popular as it is fruitier, sweeter and peatier than the 16y/o. It was so popular that they now release an 8 year old in their core range. However, nobody thinks their core range 8 year old is as good as the original special release. Maybe it was just the excitement of trying a young Lagavulin half the age of the classic 16y/o - try a sample of the anniversary 8 year old and remind yourself to see if it really is better.
Some lovely ocean spray and subtle smoke on the nose. More of the ocean than the fire on the nose at least. Sweet upfront and then a little prickly, but beautifully done. Apricot jam which reveals freshly cracked black pepper, that smoothens into cured meats and honey. This dram gives a charcuterie board alongside a cigar. A taster is well worthwhile as this has certainly moved me towards buying a bottle.
I've actually been wanting to taste this so I can make up my mind to buy a bottle. When I found your site and saw it had this I immediately bought some tasting samples and absolutely loved it! Will definitely invest in a bottle
Heard for a while how good Littlemill’s can be. This SMWS 30yo certainly did not disappoint, the nose on this dram was amazing.
It was a flavour packed palete, that certainly stood out as such a fine whisky.
Thanks again Horny Pony for providing some banging drams, with a great service throughout