Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 05:42 pm
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.
Unearth distinctions between Lagavulin 12 and Lagavulin 16 in this thorough analysis, and determine which Single Malt aligns better with your taste!
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
Lagavulin 12 vs Lagavulin 16: Comparison
Lagavulin 12: Bold smoky essence with a hint of tropical fruits and bacon. Rich, complex, best enjoyed with water. A smoky adventure for the daring.
Lagavulin 16: Deep smoke with vanilla and seaweed, balanced by fresh fruit. Smooth, lingering finish. A classic choice for smoky whisky lovers.
Verdict: Both Lagavulin 12 and Lagavulin 16 offer a rich blend of flavors, celebrating smokiness with their unique characters. A splendid exploration of Islay’s best whiskeys, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Smoky Single Malts
Unveiling the Smoky Depths of Lagavulin 12
- Nose: Bacon, lemon, pineapple, alcohol
- Palate: Smoke, banana, pineapple, bacon
- Finish: Smoke, lemon, leather
- Alcohol content: 114 proof (57% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
A Dramatic Introduction:
Lagavulin 12 opens with a bold statement—a strong, smoky scent reminiscent of high-smoked bacon. This powerful aroma gradually softens, revealing subtle hints of lemon and pineapple, creating an intriguing contrast. A slight alcohol tinge is initially present but fades with time, allowing the other notes to shine.
A Textured Journey:
The first sip of Lagavulin 12 delivers a smooth and oily texture that coats the palate. A warm, yet pleasant heat emerges, followed by a rich peaty character with a surprising meaty salami note. The flavor profile then takes a surprising turn, introducing tropical fruits and a subtle oak undertone, adding a layer of complexity.
A Lingering Impression:
The finish is long and captivating, gradually transitioning from its smoky roots to a combination of tart lemon and a subtle touch of aged leather. A light, lingering heat lingers on the way down, adding a touch of warmth to the experience.
Unlocking its Full Potential:
While enjoyable straight out of the bottle, Lagavulin 12 benefits from patience and a dash of water. This allows the whisky to “open up,” revealing its full complexity and allowing the various flavor notes to come into focus.
A Celebration of Complexity:
This Islay single malt embodies the classic Lagavulin experience. It boasts a dry, oily character with a high-proof kick, delivering a truly robust and flavorful experience. The layered and intricate flavor profile offers a satisfying journey from nose to finish, leaving no room for disappointment.
A Matter of Value:
While the complexity and flavor profile are undeniably impressive, the price point may be a consideration for some. While I personally adore this whisky, I believe a more affordable price tag could make it even more accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts.
Additional Notes:
This edition of Lagavulin 12 is unfiltered, bottled at cask strength, and aged in new oak casks. This information adds context to the tasting experience and caters to whisky enthusiasts who appreciate these details.
Remember: Enjoying whisky is a personal journey. Explore different expressions and find what suits your taste preferences!
Lagavulin 16: A Bold and Smoky Single Malt Whisky
- 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
Aromatic Journey:
Lagavulin 16 opens with a captivating aroma, blending smoky sea salt with hints of sweet vanilla and caramel. This initial scent hints at the complex flavor profile to come.
Flavorful Fusion:
The first sip reveals a rich and bold taste. The smoky and peaty notes are prominent but beautifully balanced by fruity sweetness and caramel, creating a satisfying complexity. This whisky boasts a smooth and creamy texture, adding to its pleasant drinking experience.
Lingering Warmth:
The finish is long and warming, leaving a lingering smoky aftertaste with a touch of caramel sweetness. This lingering sensation adds to the overall depth and character of the whisky.
Honest Appreciation:
Lagavulin 16 is a bold and robust single malt, recognized for its distinct smoky flavor. While it might not be for everyone, its peaty character is well-balanced with pleasing sweetness, making it an acquired taste worth exploring.
Aged for Complexity:
Matured in bourbon barrels, this whisky develops a complex flavor profile with prominent vanilla notes. This aging process contributes to the smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.
Award-Winning:
Lagavulin 16 has been recognized for its exceptional quality, earning the title of “Best Single Malt Whisky” at the SF World Spirits Competition 2013, along with several other accolades.
Additional Notes:
This whisky is aged in bourbon barrels and uses artificial coloring.
Enjoying the Experience:
For those who find the smokiness a bit strong, adding a few drops of water can help mellow the taste and enhance the sweetness, allowing you to discover the full complexity of this unique whisky.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Lagavulin 12 | $150 |
| Lagavulin 16 | $75 |