Lagavulin 12 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2022 57.3% NV

Professional reviews

Serge Valentin (89)

From refill American and virgin oak casks. They love their legends, last year it was a lion on fire, this time it is a phoenix. I just adored last's years 12 yo SR (WF 92). Colour: white wine. Nose: goodness gracious, this is a blend of seawater, sorb and holly eaux-de-vie, gentian and chlorine (pool water). Some white asparagus too, shoe polish, sauna oils, new rubber bands and tyres, kerosene… And perhaps a little more fatness than in earlier releases. With water: some fresh paint this time, and even more new tyres and inner tubes, leatherette, benzine, kerosene (airport runway after a busy day) ... Mouth (neat): two-stroke Lagavulin, with citrus liqueurs and with straight peat smoke. Some kind of smoky limoncello, perhaps a little binary, but water should help. With water: this is funny, we've found the 8 in this 12, now that water's been added, but the 8 was a tad more in high-res, so to speak. Finish: long, with a little fatness from the woods (I suppose) and even something very marginally syrupy. Classic aftertaste, on iodine, tar, lemon and pure peat. Comments: some extra-sweetness in this variant. Awesome, as always, but the 8 has been a little nasty. Bugger!

Gal Granov (89)

When it comes to the Special Releases on whisky almost always present: the 12-year-old Lagavulin! It’s usually a kicking, high abv version as opposed to the older more restrained, and sherry-influenced 16 yo.

This year the 12 is present again, yet in addition to the traditional re-fill oak casks, there’s a wee touch of virgin wood casks used to finish this edition of the Lagavulin 12. One more fact worth mentioning this year, is that this whisky is made of the peatiest Lagavulin in the warehouse in terms of PPM (it appears they keep a ppm information on the casks when they go to the warehouse for aging) – interesting, isn’t it? Let’s dram.
Nose: Dark and smoky with rich peat smoke, seashore campfires – earthy and muddy one could say – then comes the trademark tarry rope and kerosene lanterns one finds in fishing boats, pepper and black tea leaves, and even a note of cigar wrapper leaf. Give it more time and some smoke haddock comes into mind, as well as leather and peppermint. Complex, and Lagvuliny. yes.
Palate: Starts sweet with brown sugar, golden syrup, and dirty earthy notes, licorice candy, Lapsang tea, damp leaves, and wet damp oak, brine, and quite medicinal as well, with a touch of grilled apple on wood fires, more tar, peat embers, and a salty edge.

Finish: Tar, earth, ash, peppermint, espresso, and a lingering saltiness.

Conclusion: Excellent complex stuff, just what you’d expect from a younger Lagavulin, full of flavor, complexity peatiness, and dirty. The Virgin cask finish is a clever choice. A no-brainer for Lagavulin and Islay fans.

Words of Whisky (87)

:

Refilled heavily peated American oak and virgin oak
Nose: Hints of briny oysters, vegetal peat smoke and ever so subtle sauerkraut. There’s some seaweed and iodine too, as well as asphalt, white pepper and bung cloth. Touches of mineral Riesling and mush banana round things off.
Taste: Fatty mouthfeel. More vegetal peat, charred lemon peel and lovely briny notes, as well as mineral touches. Spices such as ginger, pepper and cloves are present but well-regulated.
Finish: Charred oak, spices, ash and vegetal smoke. Long.

CONCLUSION
It’s one of the better entries in this year’s Special Releases. And I know everybody always raves about the Lagavulin 12 Years Cask Strength, but I’ve never thought they were hors catégorie. This year’s release included. However, it’s once again really good, that’s undeniable.

BOW (90)

Lagavulin 12 Years Old: Diageo Special Releases 2022 Unleashes a Smoky and Intense Delight

Lagavulin, an iconic name in the realm of Islay whiskies, presents a highly anticipated release as part of the Diageo Special Releases 2022 lineup. The Lagavulin 12 Years Old captivates whisky enthusiasts with its rich and robust flavors, showcasing the characteristic smokiness that Lagavulin is renowned for. Bottled at a compelling 57.3% ABV, this expression offers a unique and memorable drinking experience. With its maturation in refill American and virgin oak casks, the Lagavulin 12 Years Old reveals an exceptional interplay of flavors and textures.

Appearance and Aroma:
The Lagavulin 12 Years Old displays a mesmerizing color of shiny, iridescent gold. As the glass is raised, a dry and immediate strong smokiness envelops the senses. This release showcases an intensified level of smokiness, with notes of charcoal and fragrant peat making a grand entrance. The underlying base note hints at sea air and mineral scents, adding a clean and fresh dimension. Even with a few drops of water, the aroma remains largely unchanged, exuding an aromatic allure.

Palate and Texture:
Upon tasting, the Lagavulin 12 Years Old reveals a round and slightly oily texture that coats the palate with a sweet richness. The initial flavors are sweet, captivating the taste buds, followed by a rising lemony acidity that adds a refreshing tang. A pinch of sea salt further enhances the complexity, providing a delightful contrast. As the palate evolves, the fire intensifies, drying up the flavors and elevating the salty-smoky intensity to new heights. Adding a splash of water rounds out the edges and adds a touch of sweetness, although the dominant characteristic remains the captivating smoke.

Finish:
The Lagavulin 12 Years Old boasts a long and memorable finish. Waves of peat smoke wash over the palate, leaving an indelible impression. The newly fired peaks of spiced and smoky intensity linger, creating a lingering aftertaste that invites reflection. The finish is a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of Lagavulin, showcasing their mastery of balancing smoke and spice.

Tasting Notes Recap:
- Color: Shiny, iridescent gold.
- Nose: Dry, strong smokiness with charcoal and fragrant peat, accompanied by hints of sea air and minerals.
- Body: Medium.
- Taste: Sweet to start, followed by a rising lemony acidity and a touch of sea salt. Intense smoky and salty notes dominate.
- Finish: Long, with waves of peat smoke and peaks of spiced intensity.

Conclusion:
The Lagavulin 12 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2022 is a remarkable whisky that delivers a symphony of smoky and intense flavors. With its maturation in refill American and virgin oak casks, this expression showcases Lagavulin's expertise in creating a balanced and captivating whisky. From its mesmerizing aroma to its lingering finish, the Lagavulin 12 Years Old offers a memorable sensory journey for whisky enthusiasts. This release is a testament to the legacy of Lagavulin and is sure to leave a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to savor its distinctive character.