LAGAVULIN 16 ANS

The colour of this whisky is fairly dark, with fiery orange highlights. The texture appears to be moderately syrupy, as the legs left on the sides of the glass dissipate quickly and turn into drops after a few moments.

On the nose, it's discreet but at the same time complex. Smoke and peat meet in the midst of a pleasant maritime scent. A sweet fragrance subtly blends with a smell of nuts, or rather roasted hazelnuts, both trying to take their place in the background.

On the palate, it's rather less discreet! As soon as it enters the mouth, the peat arrives with a rush of smoke! This jostling of flavours then gives way to spicy and slightly sweet traces, a little like caramel that has been slightly burnt. You can also feel the tannins of the wood on the palate and inside the cheeks. The saltiness then makes an entrance and accompanies us through to the finish.

The finish is quite persistent. It is very smoky, peaty and also salty and oceanic. A roasted bitterness (espresso) also plays a small part in this magnificent finish!

This scotch is, in my opinion, an iconic representative of the Isle of Islay. Most of the typical characteristics of the mythical island are present. Smoke, peat, saline and oceanic notes are all present and beautifully well balanced.