Lagavulin Whisky Sample 14 Year Old Distillery Edition Jazz Festival 2022 Release (30ml, 55.4%)

Lagavulin Whisky Sample 14 Year Old Distillery Edition Jazz Festival 2022 Release (30ml, 55.4%)

While Lagavulin is famous for its Sherry and Bourbon maturations, this release took a unique path by finishing the spirit for five years in brandy-seasoned hogsheads after an initial maturation in refill American oak. This lengthy finish—nearly a third of its life—imbues the classic Islay smoke with an unusual, sophisticated sweetness.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Initially mild with a light prickle, the nose quickly reveals a rich, syrupy sweetness. Aromas of golden syrup, plump sultanas, and vanilla bean lead the way, followed by a robust wave of typical Lagavulin smoke—reminiscent of damp earth, mossy peat, and coastal sea spray. There is a faint citric lift, like orange zest, hiding behind a layer of bonfire embers.

Palate: The entry is powerful and oily. A punch of acrid peat smoke and cracked black pepper hits first, followed by a warming "green chili" heat. This savory intensity is beautifully balanced by the brandy cask influence, which brings in luxurious notes of poached apples, apricot jam, and brown sugar. The texture is soulful and thick, successfully marrying industrial soot with fruit-forward sweetness.

Finish: Long, sumptuous, and drying. The sweetness of the brandy and dried fruits (specifically sultana and date) lingers alongside a persistent, ashy smokiness. As it fades, more delicate notes of clove, rose water, and a pinch of sea salt emerge, leaving a final impression of elegant, spiced oak.