Tasting notes from the producer

Presenting Lagavulin 'The Ink of Legends', a notable selection from the Diageo Special Releases of 2023. The unique smoky character of this Islay distillery is enhanced through maturation in Don Julio Añejo Tequila casks, culminating in a bottling strength of 56.4% AB

Nose: The immediate aromas are slightly more medicinal than smoky, showing hints of carbolic soap and soothing rub that soon mingle with aromatic wood smoke from a driftwood bonfire on the beach. As the intense, herbal smoke takes over, a savoury note drifts through it, suggesting barbecued pork. A drop of water reduces the intensity yet adds more maritime and darkly fruity notes, making the smokiness yet more aromatic.​

Palate: At natural strength, the robust texture is creamy-smooth and mouth-filling, while with its ever-richer swirling​flavours the taste is sweet at first and citrus-like, adds a good sprinkling of salt, then reveals notes of juicy plum in an increasingly smoky and lip-tingling finale. With a dash of water, it’s a little sweeter and smokier still.​

Finish: Long, with a salty tang and finishing very smoky, with just a hint of that light meatiness in a smoky aftertaste that is both lingering and mouth-cooling. It is drying, with a lovely warm-heartedness.