In the Diageo universe of Single Malt Scotch whisky, there are more than a few expressions that we would consider iconic, i.e. Caol Ila 12, Talisker 10, Dalwhinnie 15, and of course, the Lagavulin 16, to name just a few. Go to any whisky event where Diageo has a table, and you’ll surely see those whiskies. They’re all very different, so if you see them, be sure to give them a try.

Several years ago (maybe a decade ago? who knows!), Lagavulin released an expression that was half the age of their standard issue whisky and slightly more potent, i.e. 48% ABV for the 8 vs 43% ABV for the 16. Here’s what they have to say about it on the Malts.com website:

Released to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the founding of Lagavulin distillery by John Johnston in 1816, this eight-year-old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is big and smoky. A celebration of the people and craft that have made Lagavulin great over the last two centuries, its fragrant, tea-scented smoke alongside nose-drying, maritime aromas is unlocked with just a drop of water. Inspired by the visit of Alfred Barnard to the distillery in the 1880s when he tried an ‘exceptionally fine’ eight-year-old from the distillery, this is a fitting tribute for the milestone. With a light body that becomes pleasantly oily, the Lagavulin 8-Year-Old palate boasts a magnificently full-on Lagavulin taste that’s somehow even bigger than you expect. The limited-edition, beautifully pristine presentation box makes it the perfect gift for lovers of peaty and powerful whiskies.

To find out if we enjoyed a much younger Lagavulin at a slightly higher octane, click the play button on the following video:

If you like what you saw and heard, please subscribe to our blog and YouTube Channel. It’s the easiest and BEST way to find out what we’ll be tasting next!