Home / Whiskey / Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Re...

Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1%

Scotland Single Malt Scotch Score: 8.5/10

Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1% is a highly acclaimed Single Malt Scotch whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 8.5/10, it features distinctive notes of Brine, Caramel, Clove. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking single malt scotch expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

Lagavulin 12 Year Old from the Diageo Special Releases 2012 is a highly anticipated bottling that highlights the classic Islay style of Lagavulin with an extra layer of intensity. Known for its peated and smoky character, this expression amplifies the rich, earthy flavors of Lagavulin's spirit, while maintaining the smoothness and complexity the distillery is renowned for. Bottled at 56.1% ABV, this whisky offers an elevated experience, providing a more concentrated flavor profile that’s both bold and refined. It is a fantastic choice for peat lovers and those who appreciate the intricate layers that come from both the spirit and the cask maturation.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose is immediately striking with a rich, smoky peat character that defines Lagavulin’s signature style. There is a deep, earthy smokiness that’s both robust and inviting, with a medicinal quality that recalls fresh bandages and iodine. Beneath the peat smoke, there are layers of maritime influence, with salty sea breeze and hints of brine, providing a coastal backdrop. There’s also a rich sweetness, with notes of honey, vanilla, and toffee, balancing the smoky intensity. Subtle hints of dried fruit, such as raisins and sultanas, mingle with a gentle spiciness, adding complexity and depth to the aroma. The overall nose is bold, aromatic, and layered, promising a whisky that will evolve with every sniff.

TASTE: On the palate, Lagavulin 12 Year Old is full-bodied and powerful, with the peat smoke taking center stage but never overpowering the other flavors. The initial hit of smoke is intense yet smooth, with a salty brine and maritime tang that evoke the rugged coastal landscape of Islay. Beneath the smoke, there are rich, malty flavors of toffee and caramel, offering sweetness that contrasts with the salty and smoky elements. Notes of dark chocolate, dried fruits (raisins, figs), and a touch of espresso add depth and complexity. There is also a gentle spice from the oak, with hints of black pepper and clove, providing a warming sensation that lingers throughout the tasting experience. Despite its strength, the whisky remains remarkably balanced, with the peat and sweetness in perfect harmony.

FINISH: The finish is long and enduring, with the peat smoke lingering on the palate, giving way to a slightly drying sensation. The salty, coastal notes persist, accompanied by a light oak spiciness that adds warmth and depth. The sweetness from the toffee and dried fruit gradually fades, leaving behind a clean, smoky aftertaste with a touch of pepper and a gentle, pleasant bitterness. The finish is powerful yet refined, a perfect end to a whisky that showcases the complexity of Lagavulin’s signature style. Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Diageo Special Releases 2012) is a stellar example of Islay whisky at its best. It combines the signature peatiness and smoky character of Lagavulin with an added complexity brought about by its higher ABV and longer maturation. This expression is ideal for peat enthusiasts who want to explore the depth of Lagavulin’s flavors in a more concentrated form. It’s a whisky that commands attention and rewards those who take the time to savor its many layers.

Flavor Profile

Brine Caramel Clove Dark Chocolate Dried Espresso Honey Iodine Oak Peat Pepper Salt Smoke Sultana Toffee Vanilla

Similar Whiskeys

Macallan 10yo Full Proof 57% 1980 (OB, Giovinetti & Figli)

Ledaig 42yo Dusgadh

Laphroaig 27yo 57.4% 1980-2007 (OB, 5 Oloroso Casks, 972 Bts)

Glenfarclas 40yo

Amrut Spectrum (Batch 1)

Glengoyne 25yo

Highland Park 25yo

Highland Park 40yo

Tamdhu 30yo (MacPhail Collection 2009)

Balvenie TUN 1401 (all batches)

Kavalan Solist Oloroso Sherry Cask

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 33)

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 37)

Highland Park 30yo

Laphroaig 25yo

Nikka Single Cask Coffey Malt 12yo

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 40)

Yamazaki 18yo

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 49)

Redbreast 21yo

Yamazaki Sherry Cask (all vintages)

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 56)

Bruichladdich 21yo Cuvée 407 PX

Compass Box Last Vatted Malt

Amrut Greedy Angels (8yo and 10yo)

BenRiach 18yo Albariza Pedro Ximenez Peated

Amrut Spectrum (all batches)

Bowmore Springtide

Highland Park 16yo Odin

GlenDronach Cask Strength (batch 1)

Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 53)

GlenDronach Cask Strength (batch 2)

Macallan Cask Strength

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 39)

Highland Park 18yo

Karuizawa 1990 Sherry Butt

Kavalan Solist PX Cask

Sheep Dip Old Hebridean 1990 Blended Malt

Timorous Beastie 21yo Sherry Edition

Amrut Spectrum 004 (Batch 2)

GlenDronach vintage 20yo Single Cask (all vintages)

Kavalan Solist Manzanilla Cask

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 44)

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 52)

Kavalan Solist Amontillado Cask

Aberlour A'Bunadh (Batch 35)

BenRiach 17yo Solstice Peated Port (both editions)

Benromach 10yo Cask Strength (100 proof)

Highland Park 17yo The Dark

User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1%

What type of whiskey is Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1%?

Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1% is a Single Malt Scotch whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1%?

For the best tasting experience, pour Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1% into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1%?

Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1% pairs excellently with smoked salmon, oysters, and strong cheeses. The smoky character matches beautifully with seafood and robust flavors.

What are the main flavor notes in Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1%?

The flavor profile of Lagavulin 12 year old (Diageo Special Releases 2012), 56.1% features Brine, Caramel, Clove, Dark Chocolate, Dried. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.

Cocktails with Scotch

Affinity

Balmoral

Dry Rob Roy

Flying Scotchman

Godfather

Highland Fling Cocktail

Irish Cream

Loch Lomond

Penicillin

Rusty Nail

Scotch Sour

Thriller

Whisky Mac