Lagavulin 11 (Offerman Edition)
STATS:
Lagavulin Distillery – Port Ellen, Isle of Islay
Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
92 Proof (46% ABV)
11 Years Old
Lagavulin Distillery Website
Lagavulin has a devout following. One that loves its balance of smoke, vegetal peat, and malted character. And, they have decided to engage another devout audience, the cult of Offerman. Notorious for his stand-up comedy and portrayal of Ron Swanson from Parks and Rec, Offerman is also a devout lover of whiskies.
He has claimed to have traveled the globe searching for his favorite whiskies. And, he has said that the Isle of Islay produces the whiskies he loves best. Finished in a Guinness cask, this is truly a Scottish bottle through and through.
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Nose
(3.5)
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Palate
(4)
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Finish
(3.5)
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Heat Vs. Proof
(4)
Notes & Review
Nose: Vegetal peated note, light smoke, rye bread, cinnamon honey baked pears, and cracked black pepper.
Palate: Creamy and velvety mouthfeel that is strong on the front but fades quickly. Strong notes of smoked apple, peat, honey-baked dates, and baking spice.
Finish: Strong vegetal notes that keep the pour herbal. Charred oak, mint, and dried figs on the finish.
Review:
Overall, it was a good pour. I am a fan of peated whisky, but it has to be balanced or part of a larger profile rather than just an absolute peat bomb. And, I’m pleased to report that this whisky does just that.
The tone of the scotch is herbal and sweet. It strikes a nice balance having lighter and fruitier undertones to such a strong peat profile up front. I feel that the Guinness barrel helps round out and smooth the flavor, giving it a strong backbone while allowing mellowing to occur.
I’d recommend this to those who like peated whiskey, but also enjoy ones that are more rounded.
