ABV: 56.5% | Origin: Islay, Scotland
Volume: 20cl

A fierce, fire-breathing expression from Islay’s most legendary distillery. The 2023 Special Release Lagavulin 12 Year Old is a cask strength bottling matured exclusively in refill American oak casks. Unrelenting, smoky, and elemental, this small-format bottle captures the soul of the sea.

Tasting Profile

Nose: Intense peat smoke, saline spray, seaweed, charred citrus peel
Palate: Fiery pepper, smoked meat, lemon zest, maritime brine
Finish: Long and dry with a lingering chili heat and ashes

Production Details

Distillation method: Traditional copper pot stills, slow distillation
Cask type(s): Refill American oak
Special processes: Bottled at natural cask strength, non-chill filtered

Perfect For

Ideal for peat lovers and Islay purists. This Lagavulin is best enjoyed neat or with a drop of water by the fire. A great addition to any collector’s Special Release lineup or for anyone looking for a raw, powerful dram.

Expert Notes

“An uncompromising classic. Deeply smoky, unapologetically Lagavulin. Year after year, the 12-year Special Release continues to define the modern Islay experience.”
– Dave Broom

Customer Reviews

“Compact bottle, massive flavor. This is Islay turned up to 11.” – Alex W. ★★★★★
“Sharp, smoky, and sea-splashed. An annual ritual for me.” – Lea R. ★★★★☆
“A whisky that grips you from the first sip—fiery but brilliant.” – Henry J. ★★★★★

Interesting Fact

Nicknamed “The Flame of the Phoenix” in the 2023 Diageo Special Releases, this bottling symbolizes rebirth through fire—fitting for a whisky forged in smoke and storm.

Serving Suggestions

• Best served neat in a Glencairn glass to experience full intensity

• Add a few drops of water to unlock citrus and earthy layers

• Pair with smoked salmon or aged blue cheese for a bold tasting session

Lagavulin Distillery

Founded in 1816 on the rugged southern coast of Islay, Lagavulin is a cornerstone of Scotch whisky. Famed for its peaty, maritime character and cult following, Lagavulin continues to produce some of the world’s most revered single malts using time-honored methods and slow distillation.