Lagavulin 1991 Single Cask (Bottled 2016) 200th Anniversary / 52.7%/ 0.7l

In 2016, Lagavulin Distillery celebrated its 200th birthday. To mark the occasion, several commemorative editions were released, from the widely available 8 years old to the super-limited (522 bottles) 1991 Single Cask.

The latter came from a sherry cask selected by the distillery staff and Diageo CEO Ivan Menzes. The numbered bottles were available only at an auction held on December 31st (bottle no. 1 was auctioned separately). As a Diageo spokesman noted, "the proceeds from this auction will go to Islay charities to support the people who have made Lagavulina a pride of its island." (Producer's tasting note.)

Aroma : intense and captivating, yet delicate. Charred oak logs, wood shavings, sensual fruit notes, milk chocolate and vanilla.

Taste : spicy and sweet, a momentary burning bitterness of wood softened by a soothing note of mint, sweet chocolate and honey, followed by a subtle chili fever.

Finish : soft, well-balanced and soothing, shy, tart notes of red berries, cedar sap and warming ginger wrapped in smoke.