Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:07 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Explore my comprehensive comparison of Caol Ila 18 and Lagavulin 16, uncover their unique characteristics, and decide which Single Malt best suits your preferences!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Caol Ila 18 vs Lagavulin 16: Comparison
Caol Ila 18: A well-balanced, moderately smoky whisky with a savory nose of bacon, pineapple, and apricot. Its palate combines malt, orange, peach, and dark chocolate, leading to a finish of smoke, pepper, brine, and caramel. Ideal for those seeking a smooth, fruity experience without overwhelming smokiness.
Lagavulin 16: A boldly smoky and peaty whisky with a complex nose of smoke, vanilla, and iodine. The palate delivers smoke, tobacco, seaweed, and fresh fruit, culminating in a long, smoky finish with hints of fig and vanilla. Perfect for aficionados of intense, smoky flavors and a robust character.
Verdict: Both Caol Ila 18 and Lagavulin 16 offer exceptional sipping experiences tailored to different preferences. Caol Ila 18 shines for those who appreciate a balanced, moderately smoky profile with fruity undertones, making it a versatile choice. Lagavulin 16, on the other hand, caters to lovers of deep, intense smoke and complexity, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Smoky Scotch Whiskies
Caol Ila 18: Smoky Islay Single Malt with Delicate Fruit
- Nose: Bacon, pineapple, apricot
- Palate: Malt, orange, peach, dark chocolate
- Finish: Smoke, pepper, brine, caramel
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Caol Ila 12
- Smoke level: 😮💨😮💨
Savory & Fruity: Caol Ila 18 entices with a smoky bacon and tropical fruit aroma.
Full-Bodied & Smooth: The 18-year expression offers a rich texture for a satisfying sip.
Balanced & Smoky: The taste features malt, orange, peach, and chocolate, complemented by subtle smoke.
Lingering Finish: Expect a long finish with smoke, pepper, brine, and a touch of caramel.
Water unlocks sweetness and pepper: A drop of water enhances sweetness and peppery notes for further exploration.
Enjoyable & Smooth: Caol Ila 18 is a smooth and moderately smoky whisky, offering a well-rounded and enjoyable experience. While not the most complex, the subtle smoke complements other flavors, creating a satisfying dram.
Key facts: Aged 18 years, refill casks, Islay region, less smoky than other Islay whiskies.
Lagavulin 16: A Boldly Smoky Single Malt Scotch
- Nose: Smoke, vanilla, iodine
- Palate: Smoke, tobacco, seaweed, fresh fruit
- Finish: Smoke, fig, vanilla
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Aberlour 16
- Smoke level: 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
Smoky & Sweet: Lagavulin 16 entices with a smoky, sea salt aroma interwoven with vanilla and caramel sweetness.
Complex & Rewarding: The taste unfolds with bold smoke and peat, balanced by delightful fruit and subtle caramel. Its smooth texture further elevates the experience.
Long, Warming Finish: Expect a long, warm finish lingering with smoke and a touch of caramel.
A Powerful Dram: Not for the faint-hearted, Lagavulin 16’s smoky character is balanced by sweetness, offering a complex and rewarding experience. Aged in bourbon barrels, it reveals hints of vanilla and is best enjoyed neat, with water an option for a smoother exploration.
Top-Shelf Choice: Recognized as a top smoky single malt, Lagavulin 16 delivers excellent value.
Lagavulin 16 Facts:
- Aged in bourbon barrels.
- Awarded “Best Single Malt Whisky” at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2013.
- Won 6 Double Gold Medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
What do Caol Ila and Lagavulin have in common?
- Both are owned by London-based Diageo, which has a portfolio of 200+ brands.
- Both Caol Ila and Lagavulin contribute with malts to Johnnie Walker’s blends.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Caol Ila 18 | $107 |
| Lagavulin 16 | $75 |