A Preteen that Acts Like an Adult

As a distillery famous for its peaty whiskies, Lagavulin proves with this 12-year-old expression that a balance between luscious sweet notes and a smoky, almost herbaceous backbone does not require two or more decades of barrel aging to achieve. Matured exclusively in refill American hogsheads, this whisky ($130)—the latest in Lagavulin’s series of special 12-year-old releases—is bottled at cask strength (113 proof) and is surprisingly versatile. Despite its potency, the whisky is approachable neat; however, a splash of water adds a mineral aspect to its smoke and a lightness to its fruit notes.

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Lagavulin 12 Year Scotch Whisky

Photo: Courtesy Lagavulin