Special Release 2021

Lagavulin's annual Special Release series offers a glimpse into experimental work beyond the core range. The 2021 12 Year Old was matured in refill American oak and bottled at full cask strength (56.5%), amplifying the distillery's already commanding Islay character.

The nose presents intense peat smoke layered with coastal brine and iodine, brightened by citrus (lemon, lime) and a thread of honey. The palate brings strong maritime notes and ash, with green chilli heat and liquorice emerging. A full-bodied, uncompromising dram with no softening.

This is a whisky that refuses to apologize—heavily peated, briny, and direct. The relatively short maturation (12 years) preserves the youthful energy that defines Lagavulin's rawer edge.