Lagavulin 16 Year Old

Well this has been my first 'disappointment' as a whisky, sadly! My bottle, anyways, is not what I would describe as rich or thick - it's quite thin and does not stand up to any water being added, and I mean a drop!

It is very sweet and smoky though, with lovely licorice and ginger bread notes and a nice smoky/tea bag finish; not unpleasant by any means but was not what I expected given reviews and tasting notes I have come across. Have to say that the 16 years have definitely created an easy drinking spirit that does indeed have 'the fire taken out'. Possibly a bad batch or tired casks?

My lowest rating given - I don't feel that for the price I was getting the quality that, say for £2-3 extra, I would have got from an Uigeadail. Maybe I had too high expectations but I've had better whiskys for much less. 46% and NCF would also help!

25th September 2016

Opening this bottle and taking a sniff you get a hint of formaldehyde and antiseptic. When you try to drink it it gets worse. The formaldehyde flavor over powers everything but the dirt, and the finish is a mix of sawdust and iodine.

24th September 2016

There will always be mixed reviews when it comes to Singles. This 16yr Old is one of my favorites. Peaty and Smoky on top of peat and smoke, might be too much for some people but if you like earthy scotches this is KING! More flavor then you can imagine and yet it remained smooth and creamy. A must try for everyone.

18th September 2016

First taste I wasn't too taken, the next night I added a few drops of tap water and it was transformed into the best Whisky I have ever tasted
Love it

18th September 2016

While some you more "refined" connoisseurs may appreciate this gut rot, this particular distillation curled up my taste buds. A friend described it as "earthy" I replied, "NO, I think you mean Middle Earthy....you know like aged in an Orc's a...". Anyways, if you enjoy this, then more power to you. I'm pretty sure its also Sauron's favorite. I could've saved $80 and chewed on my hiking boot after trudging them through a boggy swamp. oi oi oi

13th September 2016

This is the peatiest, smokiest dram I have ever had the displeasure of consuming. It's like drinking old shoes that have been in a fire.

9th September 2016

My first taste of a peaty scotch was laphoaig quarter cask. At first it was odd. An acquired taste for sure. But it grew on me and the more it mellowed the better it became. So I bought a Highland Park 12 and at first I thought there was nothing special aside from the smoke, but it quickly settled down a bit after opening and It was a great experience. Since then I've had other peaty scotches like Laph. 18 & Talisker. I had read and seen many reviews on Lagavulin 16. Too many great reviews to ignore it. I ordered some in a pub on vacation. Tasted great from the first sip. Smoky, flavorful and balanced. I the tried it again at a friends house and I decided to buy my own. So I went to my local shop and finally brought it home. I open the bottle and take a sniff… and nothing. Thought that was odd. I pour a small dram into my glencairn glass and still a faint smell with not much smoke. Now I taste it and I'm stunned. Sweet, smooth…sweet again with a little bit of smoke. What happened to this? It tastes weak and mellowed out like almost a drink left out over night. What a waste of $90! I contacted lagavulin and I'm still waiting to hear from a quality control rep. I know what it's supposed to taste like but at its price I will not be willing to roll the dice and hope to get a "good batch" in the future. My first real disappointment in single malts. As I have tried many. What a shame.

8th September 2016

reminds me of the old coal miners sweets very smokey tastes of vanilla and peat aswell dandilion and burdock almost in a way one of the best islay available one to try at least once in your life

7th September 2016

Absolutely perfect

4th September 2016

This is the whiskey this got me into collecting to begin with. I've had 300+ whiskies including many over $200-$600 and worlds best whiskies. But this one always holds a special place in my palate. It's just perfect in every way. 10/10

30th August 2016

the best so far

28th August 2016

I have had 150 different Scotches in the last several years. This is one of my favorites! It is the perfect blend of peat and sherry.

27th August 2016

Nectar of the gods.

21st August 2016

Thick, Rich, Smooth......
A definite addition to the stable!

21st August 2016

Standing in the whiskey section, new to the whole Scottish Whiskey thing (besides reading a review or two and loving me some Glenmorangie). A woman walks up and asks me if I had tried Laphroaig. I told her no and that I had only read in review that it was good. She then pointed out to me Lagavulin and told me how her friends loved it so much and ONLY drank Lagavulin but that she wanted to get something new to try. Though I was of no help to her, she helped me a great deal and I snatched up Lagavulin as my first Islay purchase and my god was it a great purchase. Being a Glenmorangie Higland whiskey fan boy I obviously love me so full bodied, rich, and sweet whiskey but Lagavulin has shown me why it is everyone loves Islay Scottish Whiskey so much! It is basically the complete opposite of a Highland yet I crave it throughout the day! Such an amazing whiskey and one that from now on will always have a place on my shelf!

20th August 2016

Love taste of isle of islay

19th August 2016

Love this stuff, always have it on hand.

18th August 2016

This amazing scotch whiskey is really a gods gift and if you haven't tried it, you haven't lived.
Literally Amazing

16th August 2016

Always a treat.

13th August 2016

This used to be something spectacular. A unique earthly delight. Now it's more run of the mill. What the hell happened? I miss the bombast and experience of the old Lagavulin. This literally tastes watered down. I don't know if that violates a law in the UK for the production of spirits but whatever this is violates my soul and leaves me wanting. I hate to say it, but I will not buy this again.

11th August 2016

Tastes watered down. Is this the same thing as before? Where is the flavor. Wasted my money on this... Not a bad scotch as it is but hardly a 1st place winner.

11th August 2016

Best Scotch I've tried to date mmmmm so sweet and smooth (:

8th August 2016

So god damn smooth

4th August 2016

Beautifully matured to deliver a very pleasant experience to all and I mean all of drinking a healthy west coast malt - Slainte to all!

1st August 2016

The smokiness of this scotch is akin to a campfire. This has quickly become my favorite scotch. If you are not sure about purchasing this liquid gold, curb this doubt and make it a priority to obtain it.

31st July 2016

Great whisky! Reminds me a lot of bacon. Very salty and full, but not in an oily way. Reminds me of long fishing days on the beach by the campfire.

29th July 2016

@maltmondays

The Nose; Remarkably complex, theres refined natural smoke & peat balanced with true sweetness, its not a light sherry sweetness but a heavy rich honey like sweetness. As expected from an Islay the Sea is roaring in the glass, blackened drying seaweed as well fresh life giving sea algae jump to the top of your sinuses.

The Taste; Salt returns, the smokiness is more subdued in the taste then the nose. the sweetness is now wrapped in oak textures. This is a real mouthful, full-bodied and challenging. Buttery figs & dates add a winter character to the taste.

The Finish; Long and engaging. the thick nature of the smoke wraps itself around your tongue, hence the Kraken reference; salty tenticles from the deep blue sea engulf your tongue much like the ancient imagery of the Kraken or early interpretations of remarkable but very real giant Squid and octopus (both a great food pairing!) The lingering taste continues, warm & subtly sweet.. The last note being a oddly sweet brine like bitterness.

26th July 2016

For my money, this is, simply, the best whisky in the world for under $100, perhaps the best period. Most readily carachterized by intense smoke, PEAT, iodine, and sea spray; it smells and tastes like a campfire on a beach -- pure ambrosia.

23rd July 2016

I had wanted to try Lagavulin for almost 20 years. Honestly, the $100 price made me nervous. When I got my dream job- CIO of a hospital I decided to treat myself. However, I checked here and it seemed the 15 year old Glenlevit in French oak kegs rated slightly higher (at 2/3s the price).

Last month I turned 60 and bought the Lagavulin. It is the smoothest single malt I ever tasted. However, I won't buy it again. I suppose my palate is not sophistcated enough, but it tasted like someone took the words smoothest whiskey and then poured in half a bottle of liquid smoke. I think it gave me heartburn. The peat is a little strong too, bit it's the smoke that ruined it for me. As I say- its likely my lack of sophistication. At least it did not set off the smoke detectors.

21st July 2016

I finally got my hands on this and opened it up last weekend. The nose is very very concentrated, almost overpowering everything else with the seaweed/iodine flavors. But wait... a definite whiff of vanilla sweetness emerges?

The palate is more raw seaside than other great Islays - has an edgier feel, more briny, seaweed-y. Then the smooth sweetness takes over with the peat lurking in the background. A hint of meat?

The finish is spicy, smoky.

Aaah...if on a winter's night a traveler... walked in tired and weary, put his feet up beside a fire and savored a dram....

Compared to the Ardberg 10, this is more "wild ocean"...the 10 is sweeter, fruitier if you will.
Compared to the Ugi - the Ugi is more quicksilver with all the coffee, cocoa, and brown sugar notes.

This seems to be the perfect balance between a Laph 10 (which I find unrefined beyond a point, sorry) and the Ardberg 10.

4.5 solid stars

18th July 2016

Very balanced smokey leathery sweetness, I've never tasted anything like this.

14th July 2016

A perfectly balanced single malt , smooth and has a great finish! So glad someone recommended it.. Getting hooked !

14th July 2016

Nose: Smoke, Sweetness, Dry Peat, Mature & very complex

Taste: Oak, Salt, Small Sweetness, Full, Rich, Butter, Dates

Finish: Long - full of ripeness and smoke

Not a beginners peated whisky in my opinion, a great taster for the experience drinker!

9th July 2016

When God finally finished creating the heavens and the earth on the 7 th day, on the 8th day he opened a bottle of Lagavulin to celebrate what he achieved.

3rd July 2016

It's like the best Cuban cigar in a bottle!! Superb.

1st July 2016

Complex stormy flavors where oaken ships sweet with exotic fruit role on crests of smoky waves for what seems an eternity. If you only drink one bottle scotch in a lifetime let it be this one.

30th June 2016

This is an amazing creation, it's like drinking peat and fire!

27th June 2016

Cannot go wrong with this ... a benchmark for peaty single malt whiskies.

22nd June 2016

Bought this bottle on a lark and the first time I tried it I thought it was awful. Then the next day something said I should try it again. That has been happening now to the point I am going to have to order another bottle. I definitely wouldn't have liked it a year ago but as my tastes have matured so has my love for this scotch.

22nd June 2016

A complex, peaty whiskey which is the one I drink most frequently even though I have several other Isaly whiskies in my cabinet.

19th June 2016

Lagavulin was recommended to me by a waiter in Cefalu, Sicily. I am now obsessed with the smoky rich bite.

18th June 2016

The best of everything in one dram

10th June 2016

Where has the smoke gone? Its not the dream it was two years ago let alone ten. Shame on you diageo

9th June 2016

I was lucky enough to get about a triple measure for just a few euros in Italy today, I don't think the barmaid knew what she was pouring! Full of flavour with plenty of smokiness, it seemed perfect in the warm weather but I can imagine this being great on a cold night in. I would highly recommend a bottle of this sophisticated scotch and will definitely buy one myself.

2nd June 2016

This won't just put hairs on your chest it'll make your god damn balls drop.
Superb Islay.

2nd June 2016

Sophisticated flavor. My favorite whiskey

2nd June 2016

Starts well, decent smoke without the TCP of younger/ cruder Islay's, middle is full and fruity (read any of the reviews below) - and the finish goes on for some time in the same fashion. Many folk will like this whisky for it's simple macho smoke and look for nothing more, especially at this price.

Reason for only 6/10 is that overall it REALLY lacks complexity or interest - despite the smoke its a bland commercial product delivering little development or evolution in the glass. I look for more in a whisky especially at 16 y/o

30th May 2016

Most exquisite Scotch Whiskey ever made!

30th May 2016

Just right smoke with fabulous finish and deep aroma without overwhelming the nose or palate

27th May 2016

I'm a bit of a newbie to the whisky appreciation scene so I'm always willing to find my new favourite. I love Talisker and Singleton, also very partial to Laphroaig. For me Lagavulin took the best parts of these 3 and created a taste explosion! I may well have found my new favourite. It's not what this whisky is underneath but what it does that defines it!!

24th May 2016

The finest

22nd May 2016

Excellent Islay Single Malt!

22nd May 2016

Best

20th May 2016

How come such an exotic alcohol has such a repulsive smell.

20th May 2016

I recently brought a bottle of L16 to a poker game with friends. They are not experienced scotch drinkers and there were many different liquors available, but the entire bottle quickly went down their throats with gusto and approbation. Always a pleasure to expose new scotch drinkers to this fine Islay. This one will always be one of my favorites.

17th May 2016

Excellent Scotch, I've drank many, many different labels from both, Islay and the highlands and this one is superb, the richness and concentration are outstanding.

14th May 2016

Incredible.Proper whisky for grown ups.

4th May 2016

It is a wonderful malt,

1st May 2016

I'm a long term Islay fan and have been nursing a bottle bought at Norwegian prices. Suffice to say when I managed to cork it, the remainder ended up in a plastic water bottle. Am now hiding the evidence and enjoying the mellower sherry/vanilla/toffee notes with the usual after kick.

For me best enjoyed neat in what appears to be a stemless cognac glass.

29th April 2016

Amazing malt, truly is, second best in Islay, behind Ardbeg Corryvreckan.

29th April 2016

Islay beauty it is

26th April 2016

No words. Thank you lord.

25th April 2016

The best Islay whisky there is ..

17th April 2016

its frigging good , you will love it ONLY if you know what whiskey is .. smoke , peat , sherry , i swear to you guys i had a glass of that monster and walked 15 minutes from my hotel to the mall and still the finish is lingering!! look .. if you are one of these guys "whiskey coke , whiskey soda .." better to avoid it .. because lagavulin will kick your arse ! this .. is real men drink .. not suitable for youngsters .. it's dangerous:)

14th April 2016

An Islay lover, I never cared for this one. Annoyed that everyone else adores it, I kept trying. Rotten mushrooms I kept tasting. Everything else was "okay", but couldn't get over the rotten mushrooms.

Three bottles over two years, and finally I get it. For me the secret: do 50/50 water. Or more. I'm generally not a water-adder (did I just say that?), even to e.g. A'bunadh, but some water really brings this one out for me. Kills that concentrated rotten mushroom essence, and opens up whole new layers of complexity. The other Islays (Corryvreckan notwithstanding) don't take water nearly as well, and in retrospect that says something.

There's much more to this than smoke.

12th April 2016

É o melhot single malt . Já tenho o costume de toma- lo no momento estou degustando esrs maravilha sempre que viajo compro 2 garrafas , esta terminando e preciso comprar mais . Minha nota é 100.

11th April 2016

Avid Gin drinker who was convinced to get a new perspective on Scotch. Lagavulin 16 is a fantastic place to start. Head and shoulders above the others I've tried thus far. Had as much fun smelling this as I did drinking it.

10th April 2016

Nectar of the gods........

7th April 2016

delicious

6th April 2016

Earthy peaty smokey ...A flavour that lingers and sweetens as it subdues, an acquired taste very unique.

6th April 2016

Definitely an acquired taste. Not for anyone new to the game. Peaty and medicinal, but a well balanced single malt for the experienced single malt drinker. Great finish.

3rd April 2016

For me it just doesnt get better than this. Rich smoky complex perfectly balanced. Head and shoulders above any other single malt I have tried. Just magnificent.

1st April 2016

This beautiful, rich whiskey has a power to entice you. It's rich, deep with a long finish. Pitty but not overly so, with a beautiful hue of Polish amber.

1st April 2016

Huge smokey nose and taste.

27th March 2016

I love Talisker, and this whisky beats it. I'm a McKinnon, so that hurts.

21st March 2016

While some may consider Laphroaig 10 almost medicinal, Lagavulin 16 has the peat and iodine of Laphroaig nicely balanced with the smooth complex smoky nature of a 25 year-old from The McCallan. A longtime favorite of mine (and many of my friends) amongst commercially available single malts.

20th March 2016

Been taking the scottish medicine for quite a few years now - lagavulin is the very best value by far. To get any better you need to spend £100's. Add a little water (tiny drop) to break it up and it is transformed into a smooth delightful dram - not gonna get ponsy about hint of this etc, is down to your tongue. If you are new to Malt maybe start on a lowland light fruity number before moving onto the speys and islays.
Malt - its not business its personal. ENJOY.

18th March 2016

The first Scotch my wife enjoyed! Great with my steak, or after the meal. Wonderfully smooth.

18th March 2016

This is by far my favourite whisky that I have tasted to now. A complex and smooth drink that I cannot help but return to. Masters the note of smoke (which in my opinion can often be overdone) and so can be enjoyed by a larger audience. I will continue to purchase this, and I recommend to anyone "on the fence" to go for it, you won't be disappointed.

16th March 2016

Simply being Scottish certainly doesn't make me the last word on Scotch, plus all tasters enjoy differing palates, however, I know what I enjoy and when a flavour excites me.

Such was not fully the case with Lagavulin, however, I would be amiss if I were not to mention that 'spilling' 2 shots into a nearly full 5th of Glenlivet-12 (a gift from someone who apparently does NOT know Scotch) created a very enjoyable 5th of "GlenLAGAlivet".

I hope by now you're chuckling, but please know this is a true story, and the moral is, if the Laguvulin is that redeeming in a mostly full 5th of Glenlivet-12, then perhaps YOU should try it.

Smooth is the operative word when I begin to describe my experience of enjoying my first tasting of The Lagavulin.

Oh, I must also mention I do not particularly enjoy a heavily smoky Scotch, hence I may be somewhat negatively bias herewith, still, an honest 4.5 stars for The Lagavulin, an uncanny smoothness.

16th March 2016

I've tried over 10 different Scotches (Just started drinking Scotch), and I must say that this is a mans drink. I want a steak with every sip! It's smooth, powerful, and very tasty. I feel more like Ron Swanson with every glass!

16th March 2016

I've tried over 10 different scotches (just started drinking scotch), and I must say that this is a mans drink. I want a steak with every sip! It's smooth, powerful, and very tasty. I feel more like Ron Swanson with every glass!

16th March 2016

So, guys, my original thought was that this reminiscent of mezcal: no, this was entirely wrong. This is supreme and excellently balanced. This is just a good scotch whisky.

12th March 2016

If you fancy angels piss, then this is the bottle for you. Savor every last drop, and then go buy more.

10th March 2016

I don't understand how any Scotch drinker can't like this. I've had multiple bottles over the years and have enjoyed them all. I have tried many other Scotch whiskys, but this is the one I ALWAYS have in my pantry.

8th March 2016

A deep, West peaty whisky. My favorite!

8th March 2016

I hate to share-
I love this single malt to the Core.
It's smooth
It's smoky
It's satisfying
It's exciting
It's a Wow.
My favorite all time whiskey.

6th March 2016

This is my first time trying your Scotch. I had it after a nice meal at a restaurant and decided to try it. Asked if it was better neat or neat with water and was told to try both ways. Definitely better with a dash of water. The vanilla and spices come through the nose and the palate is superb. I may have to invest in a bottle. Cheers!

6th March 2016

This is an excellently balanced tipple. Not the crazed, unbalanced madness of Laphroaig or the mezcal notes of Arbeg. This is smooth and easy going.

25th February 2016

This is great. Not the best Islay but still tasty.

21st February 2016

From the powerful aroma, the taste leaves nothing to the imagination of this scotch . If you like to excite the senses in a little delicate way ... this is your drink. However I do not recommend it for those who like delicate and mild flavors .

19th February 2016

This is possibly my favourite whisky: as soon as I've finished a bottle, I replenish it.
It's an utterly unique and original dram and I can't think of anything else like it. As the description says: it really is a full mouth flavour: ash, smoke and peat followed by vanilla (almost slightly salted). This certainly isn't a dram I'd give to mates of mine who are just starting to try whisky, but I've recommended it to those who are interested in something big and beautiful. If you're put off by peat, then I'd recommend trying a sample (either from this site, or buying a dram in a bar), just in case it's not for you. Each to their own after all!

18th February 2016

Every time I try any other whiskey I find myself comparing them to this, and so far, without question, no other really compares or makes me smile the way this one does. There's just something about it...

18th February 2016

Truly a masterpiece! And its affordable!

17th February 2016

Love it 96 out off 100

13th February 2016

So glad I bought a bottle of this. I've had very cheap and very expensive scotch before served by people who make over a million dollars a year and this Lag 16 brings your senses to life. People seem to love it or hate it. Having never had a strong Islay before, the initial nose and taste shocked me but was never harsh..always smooth. After a couple sips I really started liking it and experiencing all the nuances.

13th February 2016

Usually I buy a bottle of Lagavulin 16 once a year and drink it within a few weeks or so. In the meantime I try all kinds of other whisky and whiskey. From all kinds of continents, though mainly from Scotland, I have to admit :) But the point is: every time I buy that bottle of Lag 16, I open the bottle, drink almost a 3rd of it within the first night and find myself asking: why buy anything else?

There was a period when I kind of resented or felt sinful about this whisky, because of its added color. But in the end, I just gave in to the perfection on the palate. I'm being honest to myself: I enjoy drinking this whisky a LOT. And I can still say, without any shame or whatsoever: Lagavulin 16 still is my favourite whisky for enjoyment and there's nothing I can do about it.

11th February 2016

One of the most complex whiskys you'll find. Tasting notes here are spot on. Anyone here that finds it at all disagreeable or sub-par can send their partially used bottle directly to me free of charge.

11th February 2016

I wish I took the time to read the reviews before I dropped $90 on a bottle. The first thing I noticed was it smelled very strongly of plastic and formaldehyde and to no surprise that's exactly how it tasted. I let it air in the glass for a while and still tastes as bad as the first sip. As it sat next to me my girl complains that it stunk terribly of cigarettes every time she walked past.

I truly wonder if it's my pallet that doesn't agree with it as another has comment or if it's a bad batch or bottle. My guess is it's my pallet because although my girl and I both hated the smell we differed greatly as to what that it's smelt like.

I will say although it is the worst scotch I've ever tasted it was one of the smoothest.

11th February 2016

Like a lot of people here I wanted to believe I was going to taste a wonderful rich robust Dram. Unfortunately this is not what I got. There is smoke, there is peat, but there is no thickness or robustness in it at all. Even the smoke and peat tastes quickly disappear from the mouth and you are left only with iodine. I am afraid to say I will also have a hard time drinking this Whisky, and I guess I will have to, because I would never offer it to a friend. Overall you have the impression that its not a well balanced Dram.

8th February 2016

This was one amazing experience. Early on .. if you rush the nose or the taste it hits a little too hard with the upfront smoke and you lose some of the spice and sweet layers that accompany it. Waiting a bit after your pour, and then enjoying the nose, waiting a bit more then taking a sip, really makes a difference. Overall.. what a scotch.. encompasses so many flavors with so many incredible "essences" of sherry, smoke, vanilla, and peat. Bravo.

7th February 2016

Nose- Intense burnt wood, campfire, touch of oak in there somewhere, and spice. Mostly smoke.
Palate - Oily viscous and peaty smoke. First chew - spice - faint cinnamon and burnt sugar, mostly oak wood, dry, dry wood and smoke.
Finish - Spice, burnt vanilla and burnt brown sugar, lastly campfire.
This is one of the smokiest Scotches I have ever sampled. I like it a lot but I dont pick up on the Lapsang Souchong tea. I love toasted teas. I don't get that here. To me its a tad 2-demensional. Scotch is very subjective to the drinker. This one doesn't call to me. I prefer the Laphroiag 10 year old. I still give it a 4. Its a great dram. This whisky will destroy your tastebuds. Drink this at the end of your night. You will taste campfire for at least 4 hours afterwards.

1st February 2016

I am a huge lover of all things scotch and Lagauvulin is in my top 2 or 3 but I could not drink it all the time if I'm feeling like a nice strong scotch it is my go-to.
If I feel like something a little more smooth then Oban 14year single malt is the one.
If Lagavulin

29th January 2016

I have always enjoyed Speyside Scotches the most because that's just always been my preference. A friend recently told me this was one of the best Scotches he's ever had. So before I tried it of course I was skeptical. However, I must say I was blown away when I had this! Never enjoyed peaty Scotch but this is truly exceptional. True world-class quality

26th January 2016

This was such a smooth tasting smokey scotch, literally could have drank this all night.

24th January 2016

I didn't like Scotch until I was introduced to Lagavulin by a coworker, God bless him. I've tried other Islays, and they're largely OK save for one little five year old that may turn out to be drinkable with another ten years or so in the cask. But I digress. There is no substitute; there is no equal. If you're going to drink Scotch, do it right.

23rd January 2016

Well, I have read the reviews and all I have to say is this is the Scotch that walks into the room and says piss off ya Beta males, I'm here and I'm SMOKIN'. It IS an acquired taste, it IS a love it or leave it; hopefully you leave it for the benefit of all the lovers of it. All I can say, is you walk up to the door to the reception of this marvelous home of Scotch and it's like your grandparents old house in the Orkney's. You are greeted by Mrs. Doubt-fire. In a wee whisper she takes you into her dining room ( taste room ) with Oak clad walls tastefully plaqued with awards and citations. On a long wood buffet sits bottles you only dream of. There is no watchful eye, but elegant and generous pouring of what ever you request, the age deep into the late seventies if you like. I try the Lag ga voo lin 18. Gold. Elixir of kilted Gods. I will not effuse winded descriptions of exotic teas and creosoted seal flippers, I'll leave that to the malthead Cryptographers. So........ in a wee brogue voice, the grace and manners that your gran used to have, she asks if you enjoyed it ? Like asking a 16 year old what he thought of their first sexual experience ! My wife drags me away, and God bless her, ranks that as the best she has had, including the trip to Oban, Spyside, as far south as Bladnoch and Glenkinchie as far north as Scapa. This is the peat. This is liquid earth. This is home. This is what keeps you from killing yourself on a stark and desolate landscape. Now the 16 - lovely. And as a Scot, when Costco in Kona had it on every Christmas for $46.00 a bottle, cases disappeared; much to the pleasure of my friends and family.........and every once and a while, a newbee screws their face and scowls at the " turpentine and burnt floor wax " I serve them. I smile, non judgmental, and think of Brussell Sprouts, Cigars and Blue Cheese. So, have a taste, and hopefully you'll get kicked in the nose and mouth and say.........that was the best Lay............. ga vul in ........... I ever had........... and one of the best Scotches ever.

19th January 2016

I don't understand complainers here. My personal favorite. Just ought a new bottle and it it one of the best whiskey especially for this price. Enjoying every moment of it. It is smooth with tasty cherry ending. The smokiness is rich and full but still not overwhelming the overall taste. It is always a best buy for me!

15th January 2016

Berry good aroma this whiskey has just become number one of my list

14th January 2016

The only way would taste better would be if I was wearing a smoking jacket as I peer out of the window from my study cussing out the snow.

14th January 2016

I have yet to drink anything better. I can get lost in the simple smell of this beautiful whisky before I even start drinking it. However, I have served it to many friends who cringed after a first sip and declared politely that it wasn't for them. It's best to let them smell the whisky first and decide if they even want to try a sip before serving them a more generous portion. This is one whisky you either love or hate.

12th January 2016

I just received a bottle for my 40th anniversary and it suits perfectly with this new phase of my life !!
Just perfect.

11th January 2016

Whisky king. Best of the best. Islay goodness.

9th January 2016

This stuff gives me immediate heartburn that gets worse with each sip. The smokiness is great, but the bottle I got is far from smooth. As this is my first experience with Lagavulin 16, it may need time to grow on me. For now it gets 2 stars because i didn't have to pay $100 for this bottle.

6th January 2016

A good friend gave me this bottle, having decided it wasn't to his taste. I'm so glad he did that.

Pungent, and powerful to both the nose and the tongue. Smoke, GLORIOUS smoke. I understand we all have differing tastes, but this was the most amazing taste of whisky I've ever had. My go-to dram has always been the simple, yet delicious, Glenlivet 15 French Oak. I didn't realize what I was missing in the Islay malts. Well, I'm catching on, and now have a new hobby sampling these lovely, flavorful whiskies.

THANK YOU TINY ISLAND!!!

5th January 2016

Not kidding, tastes great when it's freshly popped open, and for a day or two after..... but then it all goes wrong and not only does the sherry finishing seem to disappear but also the minerally peat edge..... Something is terribly wrong with Laga 16..... can any whisky explain this? That's the last bottle of this formerly great whisky I will ever buy..... So unless you're gonna polish off the bottle in one night with your mates, think again...

3rd January 2016

Needs to be in a locked safe with the combination only known by my wife so she can ration out to prevent me from draining the bottle at one sitting. Fantastic flavors and complexity with the Islay peat woven throughout.

3rd January 2016

Brutal crap!!!!

1st January 2016

One of the best single malts out there, worth every penny!

1st January 2016

I sniffed before I sipped, and commented that the smell reminded me of my doctor's office. One taste told me it's not to my liking, and the Tasting Notes above explained the medicinal smell: iodine! However, from the many 5-star reviews many find it wonderful. Just be sure to try a sample before investing $60 in a bottle - and don't give it as a gift to someone who hasn't tasted it.

31st December 2015

This is really great stuff; huge nose full of peat smoke, whiffs of brine and sweet oak and a hint of sherry, and a dozen other discreet but cohesive hints. Then there is the explosive palate, which I'm not even going to pretend I have fully explored. The finish is probably the biggest I've ever experienced. You'll blow through half a bottle just exploring the nose on this.

It's so good that even at 90 USD a bottle, it seems like a great value.

30th December 2015

Just got a bottle for Christmas and I just savour every drop!! Wonderful lingering after taste....what a treat. I'm hooked!!

30th December 2015

My girl surprised me with the best whiskey I've ever had. Word to Ron Swanson. Even smelling it can make you intoxicated!

27th December 2015

Disappointing, rather flat and one dimensional, with a somewhat unpleasant aftertaste. Makes me pine for my Laphroig.

26th December 2015

Got this for my birthday. It is a spectacular Scotch!

25th December 2015

Got given my first ever bottle today for christmas. I think if I had tried this 2 years ago when I first started exploring whisky I would not have liked it but now all I can say is WOW this is the one I have been looking for. Absolutely magnificent.

25th December 2015

Omg, this whiskey bar far is the best, its the first whiskey i can literally drink like a glass f wine, no water, no ice and no carbonated water... It is so rich and smooth, doesnt burn when you swallow... The flavors are amazing! Oak, leather and smokey flavors... I cant describe the experience, all i can say is that now im a lagavulin for life....

25th December 2015

I tried this whiskey many years ago and it's my best by far, sat with a lovely glass of Lagavulin next to a raging log fire to round a perfect evening off

24th December 2015

The Cognac of whiskeys!
A real gem, tastes of bonfire, absolutely outstanding if you're a fan of the Islay whiskeys.
Not as smokey as the Ardbeg in my opinion, slightly sweeter as well.

23rd December 2015

Out of respect for Ron I went ahead and bought some and unfortunately I thought it was awful, not far from the paint thinner comment of another person on this thread.
Ron and I may agree on libertarianism but definitely not on scotch.

15th December 2015

Not a go out and buy,actually it's does nothing for me

12th December 2015

Well it has smoke yeah.. But Laphroaig tastes better :/

8th December 2015

This was my first islay I ever tried. At first wasn't really sure what to think of it didn't taste like any other scotch I've had before so didn't like it so much. As I have become a more seasoned scotch drinker I've become a peat head and when I tried this again I knew I'd be drinking it as long as I lived. Initial flavor is like that first cigarette you had in high school dangerous yet delightful then comes a wave of black tea and seaweed followed by black pepper and peat smoke. Epic... it really does take you to the coast of islay. And to anyone who didn't like this try it again and again and again and eventually you will find yourself craving it. This ,laphroaig triple wood and ardbeg uigaedail are the 3 best scotches out there right now and will always be a part of my collection. The Sugarbear

5th December 2015

It's the only whisky you'll ever need. Tastes like a bonfire at the beach on a cold windy night.

5th December 2015

I so want to love this great looking scotch, however i have to agree with some of the people that are posting low scores on this scotch. the plastic metallic smell is so overpowering for me i cannot finish my bottle. i love macallan 12 and blue label, but this i cant drink. im wondering if its certain pallets that get this plastic/metal smell or if its certain batches, but this was very disappointing. is anyone else who is an experienced scotch taster finding the same thing?

3rd December 2015

Awesome whisky this is! My first Islay but wow I like it! Nice colour, thick and oily on the tongue. The smoke is great, not cigarish but like barbeque flavoured chips. Long smoky finish, very well balanced.

2nd December 2015

Got a bottle for my birthday. Tastes of heaven! Those who've never walked through NW Ireland in the wintertime probably can't understand the peaty smell/taste. Earthy, luxurious!

29th November 2015

You need a tolerance for iodine to enjoy this. And a mouthful of cigar smoke. De gustibus non est disputandum.

28th November 2015

As a multi generation scotch family everyone has a favorite. As far as bottles under a hundred dollars we all agree on this one. Truly a smokey scotch and may not be for amateur scotch enthusiasts though.

25th November 2015

Absolutely outstanding whiskey.
An absolute must try. Up there with my other favourite whiskey, Bowmore 17 year.
Thick, smooth and smokey.
If you like bowmore, laphroignore and ardbeg then you will live this.

24th November 2015

Having no idea what single malts were about, I had my Scotish barkeep line up his favorites so I could sample them without knowing anything about them (price, location, type, reputation, etc.). After several hours, I finally got to Lagavulin and I liked it best hands down. It is now my standard for comparison to any other scotch ~ there are others that are great, but for the price ~ it's still my favorite!

20th November 2015

This scotch has a certain uniqueness that others simply don't possess. This scotch is certainly smokey and slightly sweet, but the peatiness brings all the flavors together. Take a sip (without ice) and let it sit on your tongue for 10-15 seconds, swallow, and breathe slowly. You'll know exactly what I'm talking about.....

Cheers

15th November 2015

Best peated whisky ever. Always have in my bar.

14th November 2015

I really struggle with the negative reviews of this, and many other Islay malts. The intrinsic character of Islay malts lies in its peated barley. This imparts notes of chemical cleaners, iodine and even formaldehyde, and varying levels of smoke. This smoke can be medicinal or bonfire, depending on cask influence and peat ppm levels. With that said, I would recommend working up to a malt of this strong character. Try some Speysiders, or even a Bowmore or Bunnahabhain before taking this on. As for my review, and I should say I've had exactly ONE dram from my bottle, I was hoping for more. It's not bad at all, in fact I think it's got a lot to offer, but I'm finding it a bit uninspired. The coat lines and legs are gorgeous.
Nose: roiling peat smoke, beautiful barley sugar, vanilla and soft oak
Palate: full and oily, creamy even. coats the tongue. Phenolic smoke leading into a touch of dried dark fruit, vanilla and more of that soft oak
Finish: it starts slow, with sweet raisin, fig and dates and then fell a bit flat on me. After a bit of time, the smoke crept back in
Closing Thoughts: this is a fine malt, but for me, the lack of complexity left me wanting. I've got to try the Distiller's Edition.

31st October 2015

Nose - new asphalt, antiseptic ointment, ripe apples. With water new teabags and candy apple. Flavour: amaretti biscuits fruitcake fruit, sweet almond. With water musk melon marzipan and malted milk. Finish: almandine honey menthol and Ben-gay. Great Halloween malt! Mark from WhiskyWhistle

30th October 2015

Have been drinking Lagavulin for over 20 years. Occasionally sample something else like Macallan, Glenfeddich, Glenmorangie, Talisker, Balvenie, etc. Many are good, but none have the bold, smokey satisfying flavor of Lagavulin

26th October 2015

The smoked aroma of Lagavulin takes away the taste of liquor in your palate and after three doubles of it you start feeling as it you have millions of dollars. The morning after is a refreshing one because you want to eat your porridge before breakfast, no hangovers at all.

15th October 2015

Colour:
My Glencairn nosing glass showed an almost greenish hue to the dark amber gold.

Nose:
Massive peat grips you by the face then slaps you. The other reviews that describe the smell of Band Aids are spot-on. Lapsang Souchon tea. So much depth and intensity of aroma. Incredible on the olfactory senses but balanced by a sweet creamy smoothness and slightly sherried nose.

Body:
Full bodied and oily.

Palate:
Peat overdose, smoke, iodine, sea salt, a hint of burnt fruit. Subtle sweetness hidden behind a veil of more peat and smoke. If you can handle its undiluted intensity you'll find a whiskey like few others. The peat and smoke isn't of the same ashtray like intensity of other peated single malts and the sherry aspect helps balance it and gives it a smoothness unlike any other single malt I've tasted. Incredible.

Finish:
The longest but most pleasing finish. Should you be foolish enough to over-indulge you'll still be tasting it the morning after, hopefully!

The first Islay I tried. I feel it's best described as creamy, oily, liquid smoke. Not cheap by any means but utterly sublime. I once thought it was only bettered by Laphroaig Quarter Cask. Having returned to it I feel it's more subtle, sherried quality and smoothness over QC give it the top spot. Incredible stuff and for me the greatest whisky I've had so far on this incredible journey.

2nd October 2015

I'll start by saying that I'm a Glenlivet man. My Lagavulin 16 experience was very bad. My first thought was "paint thinner"- simply impossible to drink. I've only had the problem once before with a sample bottle of Islay whisky. I've read the reviews, and your descriptions of "smokey" and "woody" are accurate. I tried another sip without ice and it went down, but it's going to take some time before I acquire a taste for it.

27th September 2015

Being a scotch lover, Lagavulin is great. So is all scotch at this level of quality. I enjoy variety, even 6 year old Famous Grouse. However, I do drink Lagavulin more often than others.

21st September 2015

But after a few days of sampling it my opinion has changed. I hit it at a 1/2 shot per night, even at $100 a bottle its practically a bargain. A lot of people mention the woody notes but theres more to it. The kick has its own complexities that carry an evolving profile as it settles on the pallet. I love it. I expect the bottle to continue to evolve as I drink it over time, a rare pleasure.

14th September 2015

Some morons actually drinks this with ice. Correct temperature is everything with a single malt, a bit too high or low and it changes character.

Still my favorite btw, a winter whisky.

1st September 2015

Ok I'm only here because Ron Swanson recommended this

31st August 2015

I received my first bottle of Lagavulin 16 as a gift from some of my members! I have always enjoyed the Glen 12 as my usual drink. NO MORE! Your 16 year old scotch has a new best friend, I love the mellow smokey flavor that stays with you long after the drink. My favorite scotch of all.

22nd August 2015

If you like this one you should get your hands on a bottle of the cask-strength Lagavulin. I picked up one at Marty's in Newton MA when on a business trip there 4-5 years ago and it is spectacular. (A bit pricey though!)

this has been my favorite malt for years although I got a bottle of cask strength old-stock from Ardbeg a few years ago that came pretty damned close.

21st August 2015

Title speaks for it self. Simply astonishing how well rounded this single malt is. If I could afford a closet full of this I would, always have one around. If I had one item to bring on a desert island, it would be this bottle.

20th August 2015

Somebody reviewed this single malt and called it undrinkable and unquaffable. Well of coz its undrinkable if you quaff it. this whisky is to be savoured. It's complex but interesting. I don't pretend to taste the myriads of flavours the experienced drinkers mention. I just know that this is one good whisky to be savoured alone or with a few good friends and you'll find peace on earth even if it's temporary.

28th July 2015

Because the are from Texas !!

I am enjoying both the Lagavulin-16 and the Laphraoig-18. I have chronic sinus issues so I miss some of the nose and aroma. But I do get the aftertaste and these are very smooth to me.

22nd July 2015

I had this at Chicago Restaurant in Marietta, Georgia. GREAT!!!!! If you like a "smokey scotch" then you will love this one!!!!!!!!!!!!!

11th July 2015

...but the MOM description seems a bit outdated. The current bottlings actually come across as s bit thin for a 16, and far from the most powerful Islay on the nose. That said, it's beautiful and the bottle gets better as the level descends below the shoulders. The sherry influence - for my tastes - is just about perfect, eliminating entirely the sulphurous pitfalls of many such finishings. But the price!...at $90-$100 in the Carolinas, it's not practical for 'everyday' enjoyment. And...for me the power and glory of Lagavulin resides in the 12 year which unfortunately has crept to $130ish most places.

Here's a tip to enjoy them both: Pour off 1/2 of the 16 and add 1-2 tablespoons of the 12, or for the risk adverse, pour 6 ounces into an empty 1/2 pint and add 3/4 tbs. Don't dare call yourself a Lagavulin freak unless you try this...add a little of the 12 or 16 as needed to reach your optimum profile. For times when the staid, diplomatic beauty of the 16 could use a nudge of invigoration, you can now date her red-headed sister. She'll even encourage you - hip, hip!

At the $65ish price in the DC area, picking up a case there makes the 16 ia stone-cold winner and currently the best standard bottling of any distillery, IMO.

9th July 2015

The only real mans drink, clear alcohols are for rich women on diets

8th July 2015

This is not really a review, I'm just completely baffled by one of the reviews on this page - why the fuck would anybody want to mix a $60-80 bottle of Islay malt with coke? Its like getting a fine piece of toro and dipping in ranch dressing.

As far as the drink itself, its a masterpiece, IF Islay is your thing. I know many seasoned scotch drinkers that can't palate anything from Islay. I've wasted many fine drams on such drinkers :).

4th July 2015

I read every single review on here before purchasing a bottle. My initial though after opening the bottle was, "holy s*it"!! The flavor is flavor and texture is beyond belief. I was an Oban 14 drinker, but no longer. A great scotch from start to finish. Buy it!!

30th June 2015

The first thing you smell is pure smoke. The first thing you taste is... pure smoke. At first I was pretty disappointed in this malt because of it's reputation and price. All I got was smoke and nothing else. However after leaving it in the glass for about 15-20 min it began to release a great deal of flavors and some added sweetness which makes it quite enjoyable. I personally don't add any water to it but I do let it sit and open up.

There is much more smoke than peat in this one which I really like (peat is good but after a little while the taste can be over powering in some scotch like bowmore 12 imo)

26th June 2015

there is no sherry casks used in the production of lagavulin 16yr old.the sweetness is due to the high grade bourbon cask being used.98% of this is for single malt,the rest for white horse blends.it's the best of the best anywhere in scotland period.i clean out my car engine with johnny walker red,i did'nt
know you drank it. stupid american.

24th June 2015

One of the first single malts I'd tasted and it was such an eyeopener. Maybe not the best introductory whisky for newbies, but for me it worked. Lovely stuff of smoke and sweetness, always having a bottle of this around (together with the Glendronach 15 :D )

18th June 2015

I've been drinking Lagavulin for a while now and I'm never disappointed. However the recent bottle that I cracked open just tastes flat. There is no peaty smoke to it nor that seaweed iodine taste that I liked. This one feels likes its a completely different whiskey and not a Lagavulin at all. I can taste the vanilla but then an under current of coconut. It's a 2014 batch, not sure if this a bad bottled year?

12th June 2015

Absolutely love the complexity of this scotch.

12th June 2015

I have been drinking Lagavulin 16 for almost 10 years. I have a few in the cabinet like: Highland Park, Jura and Caol Ila but my favorite of all is Lagavulin. Great with a single ice cube, single drop of water or neat. It does not matter.

8th June 2015

I had high expectations about this malt ... and I must say , the widely exceeded . Of course who believes otherwise is not used to a taste with a complex of sensations construction. Not a whiskey for inexperienced rookies.

6th June 2015

I could not taste anything besides gasoline and paint thinner. I wished desperately to enjoy it, though.

2nd June 2015

Prior to experiencing Lagavulin 16, I only enjoyed certain Islays. A lot of them simply seemed to pungent and overbearing for my palate. But once I came to try this, I was totally hooked not only on this particular Islay, but to others as well. Another reviewer described it as a "great entry-level Islay," and I would say that is a fair description. Yet, even though I've moved on to, and have grown to love, many others, I still find myself coming back to this.

2nd June 2015

The smokey nose and smooth burnt finish make this scotch a winner for me. Although in the upper price realm, I feel for a 16YO Single it still represents a solid buy.
We always keep a bottle on hand.
And yes, it goes quite nicely with a fine robusto.

23rd May 2015

Lagavulin 12 cask strength is much better. In Lagavulin 16, woody note overpowers everything else. Still good whisky, but legend? Try Springbank 12 cas strenght to taste what true legend in making is.

21st May 2015

What can I say that hasn't been said. Simply put this is the best entry level Islay whisky period. It's perfect. If you don't love it go back to your sherry bombs!

20th May 2015

If God would have made a better Islay Single Malt he would have kept it for Himself!

19th May 2015

There is definitely something unique about Lagavulin its hard to mistake for anything else. I really don't think the nose is "stunning" as the tasting notes suggest unless it's about the pungency of the peat, in which case .. maybe - although there are more pungent peaty whiskies about. There is a dryness to the peat and it is really phenolic and smoky. I also don't agree that its "thick" maybe times have moved on. Its potent but it's also only 43% which limits the concentration of flavour. For me this is more the middle ground but not in price. Given the price and what is on offer its definitely more of a myth than a legend for me. The finish is quite wishy washy i really do dispute that it is long, theres a bit of peat and a slight pepperiness but compared to other peaty whiskies its lacking, and its much more expensive. Its good but not great.

19th May 2015

when your palate begins to develop you really will appreciate what a fantastic and legendry whisky this really is.

14th May 2015

Expected nice smooth "oily" taste, instead horrible taste similar to Fernet? Strong herby taste.

13th May 2015

was expecting a very good scotch due to almost all 5 star reviews here but the hard iodine taste overpowers everything else and makes it undrinkable for me :(

10th May 2015

I'm usually not a big fan of Islay whisky but I'll make an exception for lagavulin. The nose alone is worth the price of the bottle, and the taste and finish have a "roundness" to them that I find hard to find in other Islay whiskies.

3rd May 2015

I have yet to find such an extinguish taste as I have found in the Lagavulin. It is available in every Vinmonopol (category 3 and upwards at least) in Norway.

2nd May 2015

Knew it was something special at the first drink. Smokey and peaty to start with a long lingering finish… You simply can't have just one dram. Lagavulin-16 is a staple in my home, I'm never without.

28th April 2015

I have a few whiskeys in my collection and i like them all, but if i had to drink only one forevermore, it would be Lagavulin 16.

First bottle was given to me as a gift by my other half. We thought we woudld have an occasional glass, and it would be there for years with many of the other spirits we have in the house but it was gone after 3 weeks.

Its more than i would usually spend, but as we enjoyed it so much i have vowed to never be without a bottle and so have purchased a few more.

Of all the peated whiskeys its easily the most balanced. The peat is strong, but not overpowering like it so often is in these peated whiskeys. it makes itself known, but gets out of the way for the smooth flavours to come through, and boy is it smooth.
The hint of iodine is there towards the end but is complementary rather than offputting, and just adds to the character of this drink.

For me, as with most whiskeys its best at room temperature with literally " a drop" of water to balance it all out.

You need to try this at least once in your life. if peated whiskeys are your thing, i struggle to see how it cant become a favourite.

27th April 2015

Such a wonderful scotch to drink with a good book in front of a fireplace on a snowy day....

27th April 2015

I am a fan of Talisker 10 but this scotch raises the bar. Smooth with a magical blend of flavors and complexity.

23rd April 2015

To the boy that thought he opened a bottle of paint thinner...you should stick to drinking Wild Turkey or perhaps Southern Comfort. With that said to those of you that are looking for a Peaty/Smoky finish, this is for you. The quality and long finish is second to none! This is private stock material!

21st April 2015

A a rule I don't drink, but I will always break the drought with a fine whiskey. I have one bottle stashed on my boat and that is Lagavulin.

18th April 2015

I hear it all the time; add a few drops of water or a single cube to get the full spectrum of flavors. In the past I dutifully tried every new whisky straight and then with additions. Without exception I ended up wishing I had not added anything, so now, I don't. I'm drinking L16 right now. Superb!

16th April 2015

As a driver in the Highlands I deliver to a lot of these distillery.the 16 is certainly very good, if you like the peaty ones, also try Ledaig,Laphroaig, glenmorangie if you like the peaty ones.Talisker, bunnahabhain,Bowmore and Highland park and antiquary great too.

15th April 2015

Spent an evening smoking cigars and sipping this EXCELLENT scotch with some friends I hadn't seen in a long while. Heartily recommended.

14th April 2015

I recomended to try lagavulin 12yo good as 16yo

13th April 2015

For me it started with that smokey peat and laughably I definitely got bacon, some back palet of fruit and the sherry notes come through nicely. I feel this one is lovely but not rich or bold enough for me. Aberlour a'bunadh and Nikka fr m the barrel have been my latest treats so maybe I have been used to bigger lately but I still feel it needs more.

13th April 2015

I love my Islay whiskies and this has taken the reins as the best I have had. The balance is perfect between all the elements and it is wonderfully smooth. I could smell this whisky all night.

13th April 2015

One of the best ones

11th April 2015

wonderfully rich and smokey, if I had to choose a whiksey that I have to drink for the rest of my life this would be the one.

9th April 2015

First experience with an Islay. Found it to be very distinctive and rich. Wonderful peaty-smoke nose and a burst of flavor on the first sip. Definitely will imbibe again in the near future.

7th April 2015

Just received a bottle for my birthday. Wow what an experience, I have dabbled a bit from laphroaig to macallens. Lagavulin is incredible, a slow draw and a tear in my eye. Perfect.

6th April 2015

Simply the best…and no, Amrut Fusion, Bowmore and even Blue are not as good

My 25 year old son brought a bottle of Lagavulin 16 to a recent gathering of his college friends…now all young professionals. After tasting, amazed, they asked, "Why do you have a scotch like this?" His response: "Why DON'T you have a scotch like this?"

1st April 2015

Not as peaty as Laphroaig. Love the fruit, oak n peat combination.. Right now my favourite.

31st March 2015

Beautiful smokey taste with a hot after bite. Great whiskey for a novice and seasoned professional. Fantastic.

29th March 2015

Was looking forward to trying my bottle of Lagavulin 16 the other night, 1 oz over ice and thought I opened paint thinner by mistake. Found it to be undrinkable, and was glad the Liqour store took the opened bottle back. I guess the smokey plastic taste is acceptable to a lot of people. Will stick with my Glenlivet and Macallan

29th March 2015

I enjoy most of the Island Malts, but Lagavulin although slightly more expensive is a nice one to bring to the table, I like the bottle, label, dark colour and of course the taste, served only with ice. One to share with people who have an appreciative pallette.

27th March 2015

The smell is a bit overpowering, but absolutely delicious.

25th March 2015

this stuff is the milk of the gods. it's just a masterpeace.

24th March 2015

This is a great wiskey--- Amrut fusion an India whiskey is its equal--- although not a Scotch it has all the charteristics of one and half of the barley is imported from Scotland ----trust me their both great

23rd March 2015

Is this guy kidding? The only "mix" I would have with this whiskey or any other in it's class is a little bit of high quality water. Experienced drinker, my ass. I've only been getting into single malts for a few years now and even I know better than that. Mix with coke? That's insane. No wonder he doesn't like it.

22nd March 2015

I was stationed at Holy Loch, Scotland in the early 1980's when I was in the Navy. I now regret that I did not enjoy the many,many excellent whiskies that are produced in that beautiful land of my ancestors. But, I was just a stupid kid and only new about JWR and Black and the only thing the locals seem to know about was The Famous Grouse. YUCK!
The difference between TFG and Lagavulin is like comparing lead and gold. My only regret is that it took me almost 30 years to discover that. Better late than never. Cheers.

22nd March 2015

Solid 4.5 star rating!

19th March 2015

I just received a bottle along with a few others in an online purchase. I got it at a steal for $62. Normally this whisky sells for $90 plus tax at the local discount liquor super store. I'm here to tell you that this is one of the best buys I've ever made in my 57 years on Earth! What a superb whisky! Truly remarkable. I'm just an aspiring Scotch lover and don't have the sophistication of describing in detail the many sensations I had when tasting this fine whisky, but I know what I like and I REALLY like this! At this price I'm going to guy a case of this while it is still on sale! This is definitely in my TOP 5 along with Glenfarclas (all years) Talisker 10, Oban 14, and Tomatin 18. Cheers!

19th March 2015

I dont understand why I dont like Lagavulin. My favorite whiskys are Ardbeg, Kilchoman, Laphroiag, Arran and Bowmore. Im a Islay guy. Ive tried Lagavulin 16 and 12, even the double matured sherry version. Do not like any of them. Full bodied ppl say...??
The smoke is there...and its the right Islay trademark smoke. But thats it really. Bhind the smoke I get some faint sweet flavour...but it taste kinda plastic/aspartame sweet.

18th March 2015

When it comes to Eastern Wisdom this is as far east as I go. -Man

18th March 2015

As with many Scotch drinkers, I started with the Speysides and Highlands. Enjoyed them immensely but craving ever more flavors moved on the the Islays. Now there is no going back. Nothing else will do. I keep Bowmore 18 and Ardbeg Uigeadail on the shelf, but find myself going for the Lagavulin 16 time after time. A masterpiece!

10th March 2015

Yes this is the stuff all good things are made of. Advice to all who try this amazing nectar...don't have a different whisky within weeks of taking Lagavulin...you will feel let down..nothing compares to Lagavulin 16.

6th March 2015

Wanted this for a long time, best single malt From Islay.

5th March 2015

Tried this for the first time last night. Was not prepared for the smokey peat. To me it initially tasted like I was trying to drink liquified pipe tobacco. after a little while, I adjusted, perhaps its just my pallet I am so used to and love my Glenlivet. I'll give it another go before I pass judgment.

28th February 2015

I've been a scotch lover since I was in college (and that was a long time ago); this is the best in my opinion. However, it is smokey and very peatey, so has an interesting flavor which to some may take a while to get accustomed to, and appreciate. But, once you experience it, be advised, because you will probably be addicted.

20th February 2015

tried this monster at a whisky bar recently, my wife had a BBQ bacon cheeseburger and I had a dram of Lagavulin. I felt like we probably had the same experience, very smoky nose, with strong bacon and BBQ notes coming through. Finish was the iconic seaweed/iodine Islay finish, I will now keep a bottle of this in my collection at all times.

19th February 2015

I have read a few negative reviews on here and I respect that everyone has their own tastes and opinions. However, if you do not like this bottle you simply do not like Scotch. I wouldn't comment on rum or Taylor Swift's new album because I know I would dislike all versions. If you like Scotch, this is worth trying.

14th February 2015

I have to say the first taste I was thinking someone handed me a glass of Jonny Walker Blue. More peaty and smokey though and a bit more of a after taste due to the smokey flavor. All in all definitely worth a try

7th February 2015

I would hear reviews about "peaty" & "smoky" whiskies and would be scared yet excited to know if I would like this type of whisky or not. This bottle was my introduction and I am by far pleased with the taste. It held my hand to understand completely now what reviewers are talking about when they speak about "smoke" and how it is such a pleasant flavor when tasting other notes in whisky. I must admit that for the quality you are getting within this price range is absolutely fantastic. I think this bottle just became a signature staple on my shelf.

6th February 2015

I Love that this is made by Diageo

31st January 2015

I saw this at a liquor store in Denver tonight. It was priced at $42.00.
Since I didn't know this scotch I opted for a bottle of cognac.
I think I'll go back and get one after reading all these reviews.

24th January 2015

This is easily one of the most enjoyable single malts I have had the pleasure of drinking. From Islay, this is a smokey pete whiskey with a great finish. One of the best, but a little on the expensive side for the alcohol content. Well worth the money though and a great treat.

23rd January 2015

This whisky is just not quaffable. Smells like plastic - tastes like I imagine a vinyl car seat would taste if it were ground up and fermented in water.

22nd January 2015

For the money one of the best ive had by far!

16th January 2015

This is simply the best of the best in my choice of single malt whiskey.

13th January 2015

I am fairly new to whisky. Started with a view mini's. At first, the peated whisky's made me kind of sick, but I grew on it. Now I think the smoky ones are the best. The smokier, the better. I absolutely adore it. I didn't expect that to happen. Ardbeg, Connemara, Caol Ila, very very nice drams. But this one, the Lagavulin, is the best of them all for now. I even closed my eyes when I tasted this whisky. It's delicious. Wow.

8th January 2015

I was given a bottle for Christmas and it has such a strong iodine that it is non-drinkable. With compost since I do not drink iodine I can see no reason why to try to drink a good scotch that has such a bad aftertaste. I was told that heavy cigar smokers love this product. not being a cigar smoker I wonder if all of their taste buds are burned off.

6th January 2015

Just grand. Love my kids for their good taste.

5th January 2015

My first taste of this nectar of the gods made me feel like the barrel has washed ashore and stayed in a cave for a long time. Beautiful peat smoke and the essence of the sea with no salt, my favorite.

2nd January 2015

My son presented this to me for Christmas and what a celebration! After dinner many of us at the table put the finishing touches on a great meal with this fantastic scotch. It's all about the smokey bass, thanks Remy!!!

28th December 2014

Enjoyed it on Christmas Eve after a great meal.

26th December 2014

When you come across this drop all you can do is Respect the Scotch.

25th December 2014

Very smooth, peaty, but it leaves something to be desired on the finish. I ended up buying a 2nd bottle after the first just to make sure I wasn't missing anything, and it was consistent with the first. Just doesn't do it for me entirely. The strange thing is it did leave me with some desire for it after the fact and I did go back for that 2nd bottle. There is something hidden there I may just not have identified. After the 2nd bottle though, I'm still scratching my head trying to figure it out and I think the desire may have just been the missing components I was looking for that just were not there with this whisky and hoping I would find. Overall not a bad whisky, but moving on.

21st December 2014

This is my favorite Islay. In my area it is pricey. What can I say perfection isn't cheap.

20th December 2014

Lagavulin 16 is easily the most beautifully crafted thing ever bottled. A distinct but not overwhelming peat flavor with notes of sea spray to begin. After a few sips the notes of caramel and (I am in the minority opinion with this but..) chocolate covered raisins come through. I wish I can give it more than a 10-10 because that just doesn't seem good enough.

17th December 2014

For those who love it would probably give it 5 stars ... the first point it hits your nose ... the strong palette ... the lingering after taste ... would probably leave the people who enjoy this taste wanting more ...

unfortunately ... she is not a lady for me ... she smells like that ash smell when you go to the dentist and they drill your molars for cavity ... then it lingers within your mouth like a long been put out cigar ...

15th December 2014

Extremely smokey, yet remarkable smooth. The peat on nose on this sucker will nearly knock you out, and is overpowering. The taste is mesmerizing, with a sherry sweetness lingering on the palate with the finish. New favorite.

14th December 2014

I had a chance to sit down with a bottle last night. Truely a great Scotch. it got better and better with every mouthful.

12th December 2014

The nose is nothing special (your usual islay malt smoke peaty smell) the palate is a vast improvement. However, the finish is without a doubt one of best I have ever tasted. Very few world whiskies will have you going to bed dreaming of waking up with the same taste still in your mouth as much as this will. It is a must try

8th December 2014

I accept that it's not as good as it used to be but it is still without a doubt the best entry level whisky on the market and for the price it is definitely a bit of a steal, I've had more expensive whisky that were not as good as this but still, in my opinion, were still worth the price I paid. It's far from the finished product but if you get the chance you have to give it a try

8th December 2014

Hauntingly brilliant taste. Smooth, smoky peat, and sherry flavor. Great after taste that lingers for a long time where the hints of vanilla comes through. I can still taste it. I would never mix anything with this outstanding single malt. Hands down my favorite Scotch.

27th November 2014

During My stay at twin farms, I wanted to try Scotch and knew about Glenlivet. to my surprise the attended ask me several questions about my spirit choices, after we exchanged notes he asked if would mind trying this, i gave it a try and never once looked back to want the Glenlivet. the smoke and peat is such a great blend. yes these are not for everyone's pallet, but if you like the rich smoke and peat. in a scotch that's meant to be drank neat this is perfect.

26th November 2014

The Irish would say, "Brilliant". But then they say that when I make correct change. Seriously, this is Nirvana for me. I've tried a number of others, many of which were fine Scotches, but that smokey, peaty richness just does me in. "Heaven, I'm in heaven..."

23rd November 2014

This is the best Scotch I have ever had

22nd November 2014

Doesn't get more complex and interesting for an experienced single-malt palate than Lag... If you aren't ready for something like this...that's OK - it takes some time wiht singles to appreciate something like this.

And if you are so fucking stupid that you would mix something as artistic and unique as Lagavulin with ANYTHING, you should be immediately euthanized. Beware the Mix...seriously? What a moron...anyone who talks about "mixers" on a single malt page is galactically stupid...

Spare us all from your stupidity...jump on a kitchen knife...stay away from these pages

20th November 2014

To the folks complaining that Lag is just too smoky--one person asks how to "mitigate the smoke"--this IS A SMOKY ISLAY scotch. You wouldn't go to one of the original meat market smokehouses in Lockhart, Texas, taste their brisket and then go up to the counter and ask them how to get rid of the smoke. You wouldn't call up the Cohiba factory and Cuba and ask them why the maduros you just got taste so...smoky. Here's how to "mitigate the smoke": give that bottle to someone who appreciates it, and enjoy your Chivas and your Tony Roma's ribs.

20th November 2014

Ignore Beware the Mix, he's been trolling on several whiskey threads with the same stuff: "doesn't mix well with my Doctor Pepper", "doesn't go so well with my lucozade" etc

20th November 2014

The lag 16 gives a peat smoke flavour so refined as to be a standard against which others are measured. A classic peated islay to be kept always on hand to teach of peat smoke pure and tasteful.

16th November 2014

Shared amongst brothers. Very well received. The most satisfying and tasty malt my under experienced palate has tasted. Should have bought 2 bottles.

8th November 2014

Nose is smoky, salty iodine, with subtle mint and citrus. Very smooth on the tongue, thick peat, smoky goodness. Long smooth smoky finish, ahhhh

8th November 2014

The show "Parks and Recreation" led me to want to try this whiskey, as one of the Iconic characters refuses to drink any whiskey besides this one, so I assumed it was a man's drink. The show was right. This is a great and powerful, smokey and flavorful whiskey. Definitely worth the price.

31st October 2014

An experienced drinker wouldn't dream of mixing a single malt with coke or anything for that matter especially the Lagavulin 16. Perhaps you are an experienced drinker of cheap whiskeys?

29th October 2014

Is this a joke?

"Experienced drinker"
"If like me you like to mix your whisky with coke"
"There are much better drams out there"

27th October 2014

Please be warned by an experienced drinker - this does not mix well at all. If like me you like to mix your whisky with coke, irn bru or lemon then this is not for you. There are much better drams out there.

26th October 2014

I've seen this Scotch described as "massively peaty"...whilst it's certainly peaty....it's not massive...not in the same league as Ardbeg or Laphroaig....but it's certainly very nice...spicy and rich and full of tatse...it's not amazing but a lovely scotch, and reasonably cheap..so try it.

23rd October 2014

First impressions: Caol Ila 12 but stronger. A little disappointed, even though I like Caol Ila 12. I was hoping for something bolder. On second taste, however, the spirit, as it often happens, came to life. Much more smoke on the nose and salt on the palate. As a huge bourbon drinker and a fan of every Islay I've had so far, it definitely ranks as one of the best. However, at the price it is, it should have a higher ABV (46-50%) and no chill-filtering. Price aside, it is great stuff.

19th October 2014

Amazing taste sip it and saviour but don't go near it if you are basic blended and water person. Enough said!

11th October 2014

Smoke all the way.. Not your every dram.

10th October 2014

Shared your gem with a gathering of 100+ US academics in London last week. Stunned by its potent aroma and unending smooth taste, L quickly became known as 'liquid smoke'. My task, should I accept it, is now to ship tasters and/or bottles to our next gathering in October 2015. All help appreciated!

6th October 2014

I had always been more partial to small batch bourbons than whiskey. Once I was offered a glass of Lagavulin 16, it was obvious the reason was because I had never had the right whiskey before. Delightful, bold complex taste that lingers. It has become my "adult beverage" of choice.

3rd October 2014

Mmm, the smell and taste take me to the Atlantic Ocean. Home. Salt and peat smoke on the nose. Big, rich mouthful. Spicy and peaty with a sherry influence. Vanilla and figs. Peat and smoke lasts for several minutes. This commands respect.

30th September 2014

Recent batches of Lagavulin 16 lack the sherry cask influence that was present even just a few years ago. It's still decent - just different, and less complex than it used to be without the sherry cask involvement.

29th September 2014

Прекрасный виски, один из САМЫХ любимых!!! Я вижу, предыдущий комментатор жалуется на взлёт цен на Lagavulin в США. Я не знаю сколько стоит он в Америке, но в Украине Lagavulin 16 стоит 1200 грн. - зарплата 2000 - 3000 грн. (это не описка) Так что братья американцы - не печальтесь, не только вам тяжело!

29th September 2014

Someone asked my recently; "what's your favourite whisky?", It's an impossible question, but if I had to answer, all things considered, it would be this, Lagavulin 16.

28th September 2014

Warning: -any positive review you may have seen about LV 16 is an absolute understatement. When Brian Cox says this one is his favorite, now I know why. I give it a 10 out of 10. It is hard to imagine a single malt getting any better.Delicious.!!!! Just the right balance of smoke(peat) , sweetness, complexity, zero burn. Magnificent. Even with recent price run ups in the US, it is worth it.

14th September 2014

In one word: GENIUS!
~jL

12th September 2014

If you like smoke and peat, with a hint of sweetness (sherry), you will love this! It has an outside, seaside savour to it. Don't listen to negative reviews. Can't imagine anyone who really appreciates good scotch not appreciating this. It is a favorite among many long-time scotch drinkers.

2nd September 2014

I must have been looking for like months before I found this totally awesome whisky. The USA of course makes the most epic whiskies but this is totally not bad. I would give it like 8 out of 10 and rate it as high as like a Jim Beam.
Big Jim - Kentucky

29th August 2014

Agreed, a mediocre Islay malt. Was great when I starting out in the world of single malts but somehow lacking now.

25th August 2014

This is a very smooth flavoursome scotch,but I find it so overwhelmingly smokey,so as to be undrinkable.Deeply disappointed. Can any one suggest how to mitigate the smokiness?

23rd August 2014

I've been desperate for a regular drinking scotch to have a few drams of on weeknights or quiet saturdays and I have found it. This is such a delicious whisky with just the right blend of sweetness and peat. It is just at the top end price wise of what I would consider to be affordable everyday whisky, but it is absolutely worth it.

20th August 2014

Few years ago this was magnificent malt, but not anymore. No it's just a mediocre Islay malt. So sad.

17th August 2014

i was hesitating to buy this, because of the sweetness. But don't worry at all i took the risk and it payed of big time! This is a very balanced whisky, i would recommend this to anyone who has Ardbeg, Caol ila and talisker.

8th August 2014

A smoky, rich, very smooth and balanced whisky. Highly recommended!
Peter

2nd August 2014

Hands down the best single malt. Sipping one after dinner makes the day complete.

30th July 2014

very tasty
will buy again
whoever makes this you have brought me back to the land of scotch

22nd July 2014

To the person who said women can't appreciate a good whisky, I'm a woman and this is my favourite. It's mellow, honey tasting, but not to sweet with some and vanilla. Words don't do this justice. It's nectar.

19th July 2014

I've been sipping on this whisky for a few hours now, trying out the flavours and letting it grow on me. When you put your nose to the glass, you get a smokiness that is truly beautiful. It's Lapsang Souchong, dark wood, strong, with the aromas of a warm fire or a burning cigar. The Lagavulin 16 is an instant favourite, and it is a whisky that will always be on my shelf. However, I do advise anyone who is new to single-malt whiskies to try something else, perhaps a speyside whisky before moving on to the islas, because the rich flavours of the Lagavulin will be lost on you. It's a whisky to be savoured and taken in little sips. A truly fantastic buy, and the beginning of a new love affair.

11th July 2014

My wife just bought me a bottle of this for Father's day and I was suitably impressed. Wonderful nose, great and clean finish. I am a big fan of peated scotch and smoky flavours. Its going to be difficult to not polish off this bottle quickly.

18th June 2014

Hi Guys,

Need your help. I know nothing about whiskeys, but reading these reviews I think this may be a good 30th birthday present for my fiance? opinions please xx

17th June 2014

I thought I wouldn't like the peated stuff after being put off a bit by Ardbeg's intensity but a glass of this a few days ago changed my mind completely. The peat was like a scaffold for the other flavors to dance around on. Great balance and loooong finish. Sweeter than I thought it would be, and smoky and coastal in the best ways possible. It stayed on my palate all night, a treat that was well worth the high price.

16th June 2014

As the title says...great raisin and fruit mixed with slight salty/medicinal but thick rolling smoke. Recent bottling I tried is not as oily or viscous as previous ones - something that Jim Murray also notes in his Whisky Bible 2014. Why I wonder? What a useless review below dated 9 June 2014. Really worth reading.....not.

12th June 2014

Yeah.. it's ok, I wouldn't punch the person who gifts this bottle to me, I just would not pay the price myself.
As with most whiskys, burns your mouth and numbs your palate. Drink enough of it and it doesn't matter.

9th June 2014

My son bought me a bottle for my birthday.i was always a Highland Park man but this stuff is incredible.Sweet smokey very complex.i agree with others that a touch of water opens it up.Wonderful!!

7th June 2014

I'm a big fan of Islay whisky's. Although i like this Lagavulin i found the nose to be not too complex and doesn't last very long on the tongue. It can be quite harsh to the uninitiated but i find a teaspoon of chilled Scottish spring water brings out the flavours better. It's not as smooth as say Cao Ila which i find more to my liking. Nonetheless it makes for a nice dram and refines my palette further. If you like smokey, heather, vanilla, nuts (but not sweet) then I would recommend Bunnahabhain 12 yo(Reserve). There was also a special edition reserve for Duty Free (airports) which i bought that was very nice too. This one I would also add a teaspoon of spring water to bring the flavours/nose out.

5th June 2014

Made of the finest unicorn tears, this is is one is my go to.

4th June 2014

As my father worked on Islay as a young man, I had a 'heads up' on this particular brand. It really is a wonderfully rich Scotch with abundant peaty aroma and taste. It does n't scald the palate like some other single malts, rather it warmly envelopes you. Pricey but absolute value for money.

3rd June 2014

If people are going to comment on the whisky or matters involving whisky then I really think they should be up to an acceptable standard of education before you accept their views. Really some of the grammar, spelling and script is quite, quite appalling. Please try and up the standards!
Ronald Silvermore.

2nd June 2014

Can't beat this stuff. Pure class. All time favourite.

31st May 2014

nothing to add, for me always be no. 1

26th May 2014

Although a person of modest means, your Lagavulin 16 is the only scotch that I will drink. No more Chevis Regal for me! I am totally ruined for any other scotch. I love the smoky peat taste.

20th May 2014

...and the other way around. Try this with anything on the mellow side of Alice in Chains. Jesus christ....

18th May 2014

Suckling on the maternal teat....Magic!

15th May 2014

Drinking some now. You got it DOWN, Lagavulin makers. I know it's bad for me to have just one more, but just one more. So expensive, but perfection is worth it. I can't afford more than a bottle every once in a while, but maybe that's a good thing. My liver will be the better for it. An explosion of WOW in my mouth with every sip. Thank you.

11th May 2014

I am not very very impressed with this scotch. I like smoke in my whiskey and bought a bottle of Lagavulin 16YO with promise of similarities with Lafraugh. However the Lagavulin is not in any way matched with the Lafraugh. It doesn't taste bad, but there's no strenght to it either.

10th May 2014

I bought a bottle for my son. We tasted it, and it was just beautiful!
Son was so impressed that he had to share it with everyone who visited!
Seriously, I'm afraid I would only share with very close friends who had an appreciation of a good
whiskey!

9th May 2014

I am new to the single malt scene and in my limited knowledge must say this is the best whiskey I've ever had. It's an educational experience this whiskey. Like I said I the title this one is my best yet.

8th May 2014

I have just tasted this and it is truly exceptional. It starts with a beautiful mouth feel and then the complexity is amazing.It is what I am looking for when I want an Islay whiskey. I can hardly wait to have some with good smoked salmon.

3rd May 2014

Anyone who describes this scotch as "ok" knows little about Islay scotch and probably is dumb enough to mix it with soda..

2nd May 2014

Ardbeg has had its moments in recent history, unbeatable 5-6 years ago, for sure. Laphroaig will always be a huge favourite and is as good as its ever been but Lagavulin is in a different league at the moment. Its complex deep, rich and all consuming compared to the Ardbeg, much more 3 dimensional; its finesse and refinement put it apart from the Laphroaig. The most complete whisky you can get at the moment, It's a must try in my book

1st May 2014

This is a reasonable dram but nothing compared to the Ardbegs or Laphroaigs. The much more mellow peatiness of this makes it a good cool-down after a couple of the former whiskies though. It's a fun feeling to have the peatiness of a Laphroaig still lingering in your nose while you sip on one of these. However even that said, I far prefer the Distiller's Edition if getting a Lagavulin--the sweetness makes it a bit more rounded than the rotten driftwood flavor I get from this one. Still I wouldn't turn it down, and it's substantially better than many more expensive whiskies I've tried, slightly better than the similar Talisker 18.

29th April 2014

There is no better islay whisky. The Ardbeg freaks need to take heed.

24th April 2014

Just tasted this. I have tasted some great whiskies, this has to be a favorite in my collection! Magnificent whiskey, for its age and price

15th April 2014

This was my first ever single malt. I remember driving home, thinking "50€ is at the very peak of my financial capabilities, so this better be good and worth the reviews". And I wasn't disappointed. Somewhere I had read that if you choose Lagavulin as your first ever single malt, the rest might never feel that good again. Well, it's absolutely right! Not that there aren't any better whiskies in the world: there probably are. But for a first ever single malt: this is indeed incredibly good! Easy to drink, perfect balance between peat, smoke and sherry. After drinking about 15cl, you still feel that amazing peat after-taste even after 10-15 minutes. Truly special stuff, highly recommended!

4th April 2014

Amazing taste, needs 20 swirls before drinking, get ready to have a totally different Scotch experience.

4th April 2014

This is a fantastic single malt for those looking for something a little different out of their whisky. It does have a strong, almost medicinal smell (iodine is a fitting reference), but don't be put off. The best part is the intense, smoky finish which comes so smoothly to the senses. While not for the faint of heart, this is truly one of the finest drams for those who like a unique experience from their whisky. My favorite single malt to date.

3rd April 2014

Clear alcohol is for rich women on diets. This is a real drink.

29th March 2014

So far the most balanced regular bottling of any distillery I've tried. At its price range nothing else compares to this beautiful dram.

29th March 2014

Have you noticed yours is the only bad review?! this is the best single malt, nay whiskey, period!

25th March 2014

As a Laphroig man i was eagre to taste this .I must say this is very,very nice whiskey.The smoke, peat,Fruity sweetness,oak all shine through really enjoyable taste an overall Excellent whiskey !!!!

14th March 2014

So far my penultimate. And to the ridiculous single bloke commenting below...I hope it is giving you solace. Me? keeping some under my petticoats

7th March 2014

20 years on as a single malt drinker, never tasted anything better as yet. Not for everyone surely, as it takes many years to develop the palate. I used to drink neat but use little ice nowadays. Always keep one at home. Very refined.

5th March 2014

Bought a bottle of this just after Christmas and I'm fairly new to Whisky. Heard a lot of great stuff about it which does NO justice for it. It's not only the best Whisky I've tried, it's one of the best drinks I've tried, Alcoholic or Non-Alcoholic.

Must buy.

5th March 2014

Make no mistake, this is a man's malt. Not one to argue with but one to embrace with sensitivity to maximise the taste enjoyment.
Of course, the fair sex drinks malts too, but I doubt many of them will swap their Highland Park for this beast any time soon. Indeed even some men may well prefer a dram that's a little less in their face.
Fortunately, my favourite tea is Lapsang Souchong. This is the alcoholic (and cold) version with a peaty smokiness that takes you straight to the distillery building.
But that's not all. Uniquely dominant though the peat is, it's beautifully counterbalanced by rich spicy fruit & a reasonable snooze in the sherry barrel.
I can guarantee that this is one malt that, once tasted, you'll never ever forget.
Right, I'm off for a cup of Lapsang. Then again......!

5th March 2014

Each time I have a sip it gets better and better. It's astonishing.

1st March 2014

It is the definition of scotch whiskey to me. So wonderful and beautiful. It's supurb.

23rd February 2014

I taste the edge of the whiskey barrel touching the whiskey. It's so good is amazing. There's a sweetness to it that rolls off your tongue. The smoke and peat is perfectly balanced with the sweetness. It truly is the ultimate scotch whiskey for me.

23rd February 2014

The best period.

23rd February 2014

One of the best Islay whiskies there is.

20th February 2014

Absolutely superb. Just the right balance of peat smoke and fruity complexity. Incredible value for money at the price too.

20th February 2014

How clever of Lagavulin to mature their 'entry level' at 16 years. It subdues the intensity of the peat and allows appreciation of all the other complex flavours that make this such a knock-out Islay. If you are a peat freak then you may find this underwhelming, but if you like a balanced dram then this is for you. A very fine Islay.

17th February 2014

"Cognac of whiskies" - Brian Cox
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HgTPs2_ut8

13th February 2014

It is how it is supposed tot be, pretty close to perfect.
No need for ice or water.

8th February 2014

tried the 12 as a very new entrant to the world of whisky..never had anything like it. made me smile. a lot. very rewarding so had to try the 16. completely different experience. more refined certainly. a lovely smokiness but no peaty fire like the 12.
for me, next bottle is going to be back to the 12 i think. which is handy coz its cheaper. altho i will prob have to try the 16 distillers edition as ive heard its cracking (for 65 odd quid it better be). long live Laga.

1st February 2014

I am in no way a fan of peated or Smokey Whisky. I can't stand Ardbeg, laphroig etc, but with Lagavulin its different, even though its rich, the flavours of the smoke and peat are well balanced on the tongue. This not only makes it drinkable for me, but something really nice. The. First time i tried it was at a Whisky Live tasting even, they recommended having a smoked cheese along with a lagavulin to promte the flavours, and it works!

1st February 2014

Lovely peat although a bit dry and ashy. Very nice medicinal notes. Nice smoothness shows the benefit of those 16 years in the cask. My only problem is the price. Fans of Lagavulin 16 should try Ian MacLeod's Smokehead which, although clearly younger by taste, is considerably cheaper and I will bet money that it is made either by Lagavulin themselves or Lagavulin's sister company Caol Ila.

29th January 2014

and this is not the stuff it used to be very sad

29th January 2014

This is an amazing scotch. Smoky, wonderful nose, sweet finish and very easy to drink. Priced reasonably too.
This and the laphroaig 18 at my favorites among the smoky, peaty and sweet scotches. same price as the 18 Laphroaig.
Both benefit with the addition of a teaspoon of water to enhance the favors.

29th January 2014

There's cheap booze and expensive booze and they are 2 completely different things. Previous reviewers have described the taste well, and I love me some Lagavulin taste, but nobody's touched on the warm rush that you get when good booze hits your stomach. Lagavulin gives me a warm, spreading rush like no other. After about the third sip, I just melt. Cheap booze can't do that at all. It's right up there with playing Really Loud electric guitar on a good night when your band is tight and almost as good as really good sex. Seriously good Whisky. One of the best drams I've tried. Peace.
-Bernie

18th January 2014

blows like the oklahoma winds.

17th January 2014

Lagavulin 16 year old is like sipping angels water! An experience to savour like no other scotch!

16th January 2014

My friend and I both have a bottle of the Lag16, His is a 2012 batch (L2) and mine is a 2013 (L3).. the difference is BIG ! the 2013 is aggressive on the tong, less smoothness, less peat, LESSSSS sweetness/sherry compared to the 2012.. I had a 2012 last year too.
ps note the batch date by the number following the letre "L" on the lower portion of the bottle
Still very good, but not the "Magical" drink it was just a year ago!

13th January 2014

Love the smokey after taste, you have to be a real scotch drinker to appreciate this scotch. Love it.

6th January 2014

A great dram. Well worth the price. Always keep a bottle of this in.

3rd January 2014

don't want to rant to much as trying to restrain usual verbosity. So straight to the point.... very nice !

2nd January 2014

Should be taken off the shelves.minus 5 rating

2nd January 2014

I'm no stranger to smoke and peat, I've had and find examples of Laphroaig quite agreeable, and when I saw my first sight of Lagavulin on a bar shelf I was quick to order it. The first comments on the smell as the glass arrived at the table, were from my family, "WOAH, did you order gasoline?" They were right. Actually, I've liked smelling gas in a car shop much better than what was in my glass. I wasn't sure I even wanted to drink it. Further whiffs revealed strong formeyldehiyde medicinal qualities that kicked me in the face and corrupted my brain through my nostrils like rotting black magic smelling salts. My first sip was a horrid disgusting burn of fetid gasoline and what I can only describe as burnt pork soaked in cheap liquid smoke. After reading so many good reviews I'm wondering if what was in the bottle was something quite different or off, because I don't understand how mine was so different and bad! The family jokes about and I will not forget that revolting burnt swine gasoline profile to this day. The worst drink I've ever had. Negative 5 stars.

26th December 2013

To all those that say Lagavulin 16 tastes bad, or like tcp, or crap, etc, face it: Whisky is not for you! Maybe some Ribena or coke, or something along those lines may tickle your fancy. Whisky is for those who understand and enjoy the finer, more elegant things in life. If you really have to drink whisky, why not try Tesco's basics blended scotch whisky. Very nice indeed for the confused palate.

25th December 2013

This is simply a beautiful whisky.

22nd December 2013

Until I've tasted my first sip of Laga 16 YO ( it was 15 years ago or even more) it's stil the best. Only a little bit better than other whisky from Islay, but still first place...

1st December 2013

I was never a Sctoch drinker until I had my first sip of Lagavulin. I always considered myself to be a bourbon drinker; I thought I liked the sweeter flavors that bourbons had to offer. Much like another reviewer stated though, I picked up a bottle on a whim courtesy of my new friend, Ron Swanson. Kind of an expensive whim but well worth it. I took my time with it and really tried to understand it by sipping it slow and trying to appreciate the flavors it had to offer. I was blown away! I discounted scotches before because I had always tried blended scotches or lower grade highland malts and was turned off by the peat taste. Big mistake! I've been missing out on so much for a while now! I've been exploring scotches ever since and this is quickly becoming one of my favorite!! Ironically, Islay malts are by far my favorite, despite the considerably stronger smoke/peat flavors!

23rd November 2013

If you like peated whisky this is the best in my opinion. It is smoother than many and I like that. Its very well made and I would fully recomend it.

Johnny Norfolk

21st November 2013

I like Islay malts... I like them all... they are like beautiful women each with their own charm... this one was the brunette that curls up under your arm in from of the fire... and the finish is quite memorable...

18th November 2013

If you like something a bit different then this is it.

The moment I opened the bottle I was immediately struck by the smell of something I haven't experienced in years - medical plasters! Hoping I hadn't purchased a dud, I persevered, and am happy that I did. Make no mistake, the iodine really is pretty powerful - at first it reminded me of the doctor's surgery and wasn't sure I wanted to put my lips to the glass. However, things get better, and the complexity of the liquid really comes through, with serious amounts of smoke, vanilla and some sherry too. To my mind, it ends up smelling more like being at the seaside but it needs some time.

The palate is lovely - very creamy but also very hot, with vanilla and peat. You can't deny the medicinal aspect, but that's ok. The finish is extremely long and very oaky.

I'm currently giving this a 7/10 because it is so quirky and such a shock to the taste buds...and yet I know this score will increase over time. I'm already filling another glass to check I'm not missing something and am constantly lifting the bloody thing to my nose. Really nothing quite like it and this is definitely not for everyone.

Tip: if you want to try it but are concerned about not liking it, I'd recommend picking up a 20cl. Small enough not to hurt the bank account but enough of a bottle to give the taste buds a good exercise.

15th November 2013

I just went to BevMo with intent to buy a 50 dollar bottle of a good peaty Islay single malt I hadn't tried before. They didn't have any, so I agreed to get upsold to a bottle of this instead. I was very excited to get home and try a sip. Having now done so, I can say: it is certainly tasty, but I would still actually prefer the Laphroaig 10 even if it weren't half the price. This whiskey is certainly distinctively Islay, but so is the Laphroaig. The Laphroaig isn't quite as smooth, but it makes up for that in being also quite a bit less bitter (smoky doesn't mean bitter! The Oban 12 I've had was just as smoky as these two, but *crazy* sweet!). Will I enjoy the rest of this bottle? Yes I will. But I wouldn't buy it again, when I could get a bottle of Laphroaig 10 for half the price, and enjoy it (slightly) more.

10th November 2013

What is TCP and how would you know what it tastes like? Lagavulin was my first Islay. I always keep coming back to it. Among the very best malts ever.

9th November 2013

The first exposure was at deer hunting camp.A good friend had my father and i try it. Whilst my father thought it to be lighter fluid, I enjoyed it so much that I purchased a bottle @ 50 American dollars. It did something no bottle has ever done, it lasted a year in my cabinet. My palate not as sharp as many could taste the depth in each drop.Literally I would take 10 ml at a time and put a drop on my tongue .Wonderful explosion of mossy peat smoke.Although more expensive now I am saving!

4th November 2013

To me, this is a beautiful combination of the peatiness of a good southern Islay, with the fruity richness and drying finish of a top quality Speyside (reminds me of the Balvenie Caribbean Cask).

I have never tasted anything that manages to take such powerful and distinct flavors and balance them without making them taste diluted. I could go an entire evening just smelling a dram.

2nd November 2013

Always wanted to try this. recently acquired the same. It was worth the wait. amazing on the nose and palate as well. don't forget to add dash of water it definitely brings out the best. Going to savour this. Will ensure it is always in my cabinet.

25th October 2013

All you have to do is, to look all the commentary on Lagavulin 16 yo, to understand how popular drink it is. When i asked in a tasting, which was the first REALLY GOOD single malt that got them exited about them, surprisingly many said it was Lagavulin. Not as extreme Islay as Laphroaig or Ardberg, but easier to approach, with good balance in taste. Very good first step to the world of Islay.

17th October 2013

I enjoyed the first time I tasted it and I still do after four years of buying it. If you're new to Islay you're in for a taste that will satisfy you in ways word's can not say.

13th October 2013

I have never cared much for the smoky peaty Scotches it the past until tonight. Typically I would order a Mac 12 or 18 if I was in a Scotch mood, I have always enjoyed the caramel, sherry, vanilla, and orange flavors the Mac brought to the table. frankly, it's easy to drink...
a pal of mine by the name of Ron Swanson led me to the the Lag; Ron has a mustache so I knew it was going to be good Scotch. so after having 5 of them tonight, I have converted; this is by far my new favorite scotch.
"clear liquor a are for rich women on diets" - Ron Swanson

12th October 2013

I had tried it because I wanted to see what a party tasting scotch tasted like, so I bought laugh. After making my first dram, my nose was smelling something that drew my attention. Then it came time to go for the taste. I couldn't believe what I was tasting. It was like I was introduced to something I wished I drank sooner than I did. I tried other peaty malts, but none came close to it. I still buy my favorite malt scotch, but I will always buy two of these. I also buy a bottle when I see. it's on sale. I now have 14 unopened bottles. Do you think I am crazy? I think not I just want a good supply just in case.

11th October 2013

And it's fantastic! Just bought the bottle earlier today and couldn't wait to crack it open. The nose took me by surprise with the smokiness, and I have to admit the first sip was different. But the second was heaven! As a Speyside fan, especially Balvenie, this was a completely different whisky and I'm hooked.

7th October 2013

I've been wanting to try this whisky since I've learned about it. I figured since it is about $85 a bottle for the 16, and none of the bars around here have it, I would try Laphroaig 10 first since it's only $53 and it is also a popular Islay neighbor to Lagavulin. It took awhile to get usedto Laphroaig, but I learned to love peat, and the taste of iodine. So Lagavulin was like an older, sherry finished Laphroaig, that has had time in the barrel to mature into a focused Islay whisky, that has some of the medicinal astrigency of an intense Islay, as well as the body, flavor, and finish of a world class single malt. I still love Laphroaig, but after a glass, you want something kinder, like Glenkinchie, or Glenmorangie.

2nd October 2013

Complex and firm. Big body, big flavour, big finish. Enormous personality. Austere, in a old, genuine way. A great experience.

18th September 2013

Complex and firm.
Big body, big flavour, big finish.
Enormous personality. Austere, in a old, genuine way.
A great experience.

18th September 2013

Lagavulin 16 is possibly the best Islay Malt i have ever had the pleasure to drink. I would probably go as far to say its the best scotch every. How anyone can say this sweet, peaty honeyish malt is anything less than exceptional is beyond me.
Enjoy it.

15th September 2013

Best of Islay, best of any peat-heavy dram out in the market. Not as smoky as the likes of Laphroaig but perfectly balanced, with a fruity background and a burning character. Soft and mellow, 16 years have been enough to tame this beast. This is the whisky I would pick for any day of the year, any time of the day.

14th September 2013

I love this bottle. Two years in a row I found separate bottles fairly consistent and delicious. This one is frighteningly easy to drink for something as complex as it is. A classic in its own right at this point.

30th August 2013

If you are trying to experience all the single malts as I have, your journey will - at some point - bring you to Lagavulin. When your journey ends, you will return to Lagavulin. Probably not the whisky most suitable for neophytes, it is a rich and full experience with an excellent balance of peat and character. Having sampled them all, Lagavulin is - expressed in the simplest terms - the best.

25th August 2013

Like a whisky should taste and don't ever change it!!

23rd August 2013

I had a feeling that it would be impressive due to its price, but I was impressed anyway after I took my first sip. Felt like a luxury banquet of dragon meat BBQ with angel tear vodka; holy and smoky. Definitely buy more

13th August 2013

A lovely, lovely dram, the smoothest of the three south Islay peat monsters but for the price I prefer the Laphroaig 10 cask strength. Batch 3 was something special.

11th August 2013

I'm new to Islay malts. I read that Lagavulin has "a burnt rubber taste that works." That made no sense so I decided to try it out for myself. I wasn't too sure about it at first but I think i get the quote now. It does work. Very well. Some drinks will put hair on your chest. Lagavulin will melt them off.

10th August 2013

I love Lagavulin and blackcurrant. The blackcurrant helps the whisky greatly. Tried Lagavulin with Dr Pepper but the whisky isn't up to scratch.

7th August 2013

It's like sitting in the smoke of a campfire fueled by peat and oak, while sea spray is hitting you in the face! A single dram with a few cubes og ice will keep your palate and nose captivated in this world for over an hour.

4th August 2013

Really, "I always mix my dram with Irn Bru" Why would you think mixing an old expensive scotch with soda, would be a good idea? These are meant to be savored and enjoyed with a splash of water, mabey an ice cube or two. What a waste.. I would reserve Scotch an Soda for cheaper blended malts... Just a suggestion.

28th July 2013

This is Laphroaigh mixed with two parts milk.

27th July 2013

Best scotch I've ever drank! Wonderful

10th July 2013

Best scotch I've ever drank! Wonderful

10th July 2013

At first the smokey peatiness was slightly over powering but as I added a few drops of water the subtle flavours hidden behind crept through will certainly try again in the near future

25th June 2013

Lagavulin 16 yo used to excellent whisky, but in last few years the quality has gone dramatically down. I wouldn't bother buying this anymore.

21st June 2013

I normally discourage the use of caramel but here it not only adds an enchanting beauty to the whisky, it also enriches the taste even further. This is a whisky that does everything right, from the bottle design to the ambrosial taste it leaves in your mouth. Simply the best islay whisky for its price point.

17th June 2013

After the old fogeys at my bar have had a couple of the usual G and Ts I always pour them a finger or two of Lagavulin. They go home happy.

14th June 2013

Запах - торф.
Вкус - очень мягкий!!!! Можно всю бутылку выпить! Первое ощущение лимончик, дальше очень мягко раскрывается торф.

(Translation using Google Translate: Smell - peat.
Taste - very soft!! You can drink a whole bottle! The first sensation lemon, then very gently revealed peat.)

8th June 2013

forgot my star ratings so here it is

6th June 2013

lady is sure dancing with me this whiskey is shear beauty in a bottle never change my troubled mind I give you my heart lagavulin and would miss you so much should you ever hide I guess I need you too much when talking about malts LAGAVULIN WHO AM i TO JUDGE YOU cheers to all who love this magnificant Malt one and only

6th June 2013

i recently bought a bottle of Lagavulin 16 and one of ardbeg oogy to see how they compare, and although think the oogy just wins the islay stakes by a nose (geddit) would certainly buy this again. in my opinion its slightly smoother than the ardbeg but loses a tiny something in being so. id give lagavulin 94/100 and ardbeg 96/100

5th June 2013

oops! almost forgot :-)

29th May 2013

I took my time getting to this pinnacle of Scotches, and so should you if you are a newbie or just a remedial SM Enthusiast. I worked my way from Clynelish to Oban 14 to Talisker 10 (I would also suggest Cao Ila 12 (also the 14) & Scala 16 along the way) ... and then finely I tried Lag. It is as good... if not better than described by the most glowing reviews above. Most people's palates do change as they progress. I would NOT suggest jumping right into this. (Cannot say what an experienced Bourbon or Canadian Whiskey drinker might find though.)

When I was very young (many years ago) I was astonished that adults drank Beer, it tasted so foul to me (and to be certain, some of it was.) But eventually I developed a taste for it, and began to understand what I liked and why I liked it.
It simply takes time.

29th May 2013

I dont care how much you spend on a bottle of whisky, i dont care if theres a 40 year old bottle of something somewhere with superior complexity, this is the most delicious scotch whisky i have ever tasted. It smells like a bowl of lemon wedges with vanilla right in front of a peat fire, tastes almost the same. A rich, juicy fruit taste that somehow goes so well with a smooth but deep smokiness. Finish is smokiest aspect, leaves you feeling like you've got something good in your stomach but hair on your chest.

19th April 2013

An Islay legend, and frankly a must have. A great 'smoky bear' of a whisky with such character and distinction you'd really struggle to find better! Great on miserable days where work or weather bring you low, or with smoked fish and Cullen Skink. Nose: Lapsong Souchong absolutely spot on! Rich enveloping peatiness, almost heady with tempting notes of exotic spices (vanilla and almost smoked paprika?), powerful but balanced iodine and a sophisticated smack of sherry. Palate: A mighty ship pulling into harbor on a smoky Islay morn. Dense and embracing oak and malt tones with a growling peatiness, deftly balanced with a beautiful sweetness of sherry and wholesome fruitiness. Finish: The 'Smoky Bear' strikes - peat and sweetness. Long, with heady oak and vanilla, a hint of tar and woven in dried fruit and spice. Quite extraordinary.

18th April 2013

Taste like earth after rain near to the sea. Amainzing whisky.

15th April 2013

I recently started my journey into the wonderful world of scotch single malt whisky. As a beginner i started with mostly Speyside and Highland whisky's; like glenmorangie, balvenie, macallan and dalwhinne.

Then i started to dare myself into island and Islay whisky, and i am starting to think that there is no going back now. So far i have tasted talisker, caol ila and lagavulin. Lagavulin is a fantastic whisky, i love it.... Cant wait to taste what else Islay have in store for me...

Love from Norway

1st April 2013

After enjoying a bottle of Dalwhinnie 15, I tried this whisky. A lot of smell...a lot of taste...a fascinating linger. I really like it. But it's a lot to think about while trying to relax. I still give it high marks but will return to Dalwhinnie for my evening reward. Next stop Ardebeg Uigeadail.

27th March 2013

Simply beautiful

26th March 2013

Brilliant. Explodes on the taste buds. Suspect the bad reviews are from people who will never like heavy peaty scotch, so just they should stick to the lighter highland offerings.

9th March 2013

i FORGOT TO PLACE A PERSONAL RATING IE IS ALL THE FIVES FOR ABOVE REVIEW.AND FOR THIS ONE :)) SMILES ALL THE WAY WITH LAGA 16.

3rd March 2013

Sorry for all the folk who can't like laga 16 for whatever reason, HOWEVER IT IS AN ICON OF ALL WHISKEY OUT
THERE IS NON OTHER BETTER (FACT) in my opinion I won't go into the nose because if your a humane you will find your own nose explanatiion we are all different, but LAGAVULIN 16 IS THE WORLDS BEST SORRY THERE SIMPLY IS NO CONTEST... PS/ PLEASE KEEP IN RANGE THE PRICE OF US ORDINARY SMALL FOLK. i HAVE SEEN THE PRICE JUMP TO NEARLY OUT OF MY PERSONAL RANGE.

3rd March 2013

I'm hardly more than a toddler in the Whisky World, but what I have discovered is: I love Islays. They are NOT for everyone because of the strong complexity, heavy peat and smokiness.

Some of my friends, who have always raved about various Laphroaig varieties, have come to realize the long-lasting finish of Lagavulin 16, it's greater variation of flavors with each sip, and the soothing smokiness.

Like most fine drinks, Lagavulin 16 is best shared with good company, after dinner.

Some like it with one ice cube, others 3 or 4 cubes, still others will say you need a drop of water; I prefer it neat. Just pour a little in the glass, breathe it in, and sip for an hour...or so.

1st March 2013

It really is hard to beat this whiskey. This was the first single malt I tried and I thoroughly enjoyed it from the first taste. It's very reminiscent of a cold winter's night beside a peat fire. Very earthy and yet has a subtle sweetness. The wonderful smokiness lingers for a very long time.

28th February 2013

They didn't have the Laga Distillers Edition which I was looking for (an awesome dram) so I opted to finally try the 16, and wow, what a whiskey!! I'm new to the Islay whiskeys so I'm not especially into the peat and smoke monsters but I must admit this is really good, the sherry influence is way in the background but it's there. Top class and quite addicting, this one. A shade under 5 stars. Buy it and try it.

23rd February 2013

drink taste and save the experience.It does not any better than this.As a whiskey drinker of over 30 years you will find that all your taste buds will sing for hours after you have drank this wonderful single malt

27th January 2013

initially the smokiness of the open peat flame is overbearing. not for the novice whiskey drinker. then when you get accustomed to the smoke, the smooth underlying character caresses you and treats you to hard islay! the 16yo wood is tasted and has a beautiful intrusiveness fruit finish. a favorite for special occasions but not everyday.

14th January 2013

I had my first shot of wiskey few months ago....I bought Lagavulin just for the color....the first taste of it was so incredible and stunning....i tried few different wiskey but.....Lagavulin it's the best.....

11th January 2013

I am always keen to try new malts and decided to give Lagavulin a go. I always mix my dram with Irn Bru but I found that this whisky just doesn't mix with it at all! Never mind I did try it and will put it down to a learning curve. I' m sure there are much better malts out there.
James McWorthy

10th January 2013

I first came upon this whiskey when at the age of 18 I worked in my uncles off licence and wanted to buy my girlfriends father a nice drink. my uncle gave me a second bottle for an extra £20 so I got one for me too. (BTW this was the first whiskey I had ever bought - outside of tasting a House whiskey in a social club, which as you can imagine did not go down well). I had my first taste of it with her dad, (he was a big whiskey fan but had never tried it) It was heaven! Since then * I'm now 30, I have probably had maybe 100+ bottles of this 16 yr old and maybe 15 - 20 of the cask strength 12 yr old! I have just recieved Lagavulin 21 Year Old / 2012 Special Release as a christmas present from my Fiancee, which I am planning on cracking open this coming Friday! I have made it my business to try as many different whiskeys as I possibly could, and have been on 7 whiskey tasting holiday packages to broaden my knowledge a little bit, but I can hand on heart claim that the greatest I have ever tasted is this 16 yr old Lagga, a close second being its stronger 12 yr old brother! - I will let you guys know once I have tried my 21 yr old.

5th January 2013

I'm fairly new into scotch, but still worst I've had. I couldn't believe, afterwards, they charged me $16 an ounce. Must have been a bad batch or something. No way it can taste that bad. I'm serious. I nosed it for probably 10 minutes in disbelief. I am going to by a bottle to give it a fair chance. For now, i am disappointed.

1st January 2013

This is the worst scotch I've ever had. $16 for one ouce? That's pathetic. I've only tried it once, maybe it was a bad batch, but that was terrible. Seriously never drink this scotch. Tastes like crap and it'd kill myself before having having another sip.

1st January 2013

An example of a Scotch that even experienced home distillers attempt to emulate. Admittedly, this Scotch is of primary appeal for 'Island Scotch' region lovers and/or those with dare-to-be-different tastes ...
however, it is an enjoyably-complex, well fractioned and aged, top class Scotch...and the price is always amazing for such crafted single malt.

29th December 2012

Not as peaty as Laphroiag but serious nonetheless. This is an awesome dram, not that easy to come by in the 'High Street' and very much the mature whisky lovers choice. Theres no point talking about noses, palates or anything else. Just buy a bottle and see for yourself. You will NOT be disappointed (disclaimer: if you are disappointed, stop drinking Scottish single malts and stick to cheap vodka).

26th December 2012

Having found my taste for Scottish single malts, I must say even though they say Irish whiskey may be the oldest, this doesn't mean its the best. This dram will leave your taste buds with a smokey mellow peat taste to savour. This is a dram that should be drank slowly with some friends.

3rd December 2012

I drink old shot whiskey, recommended in my opinion, I like!

9th November 2012

This was my first whisky love, and no matter what my other, current favorites may be, I'll always stay with Lagavulin

2nd September 2012

I have always drink this one as my favourite and I should start thinking about moving on to another brand because the quality of this one particularly it decreasing every year.

I rate it 91/100 (The older version);

6th August 2012

I discovered Lagavulin in the 90's and it has been my favorite ever. Also like Caol Ila, Laphroaig and Bowmore. Great to drink with a nice cuban cigar and some good friends

27th July 2012

Lagavulin is my top choice from Islay, and one of my favourite whiskies overall. An incredibly strong peat monster, with one of the best finishes out of all whiskies.

22nd June 2012

The very best single malt ever. Laphroiag follows.

28th April 2012

I first tasted this single malt on a trip to St. Andrews in 2004 and I was totally amazed by it, this is truly what GREAT single malt taste like, wonderful earthy, peat smell and flavor with a hint of sweetness, everytime I take a sip it takes me back to Scotland.

27th February 2012

In my price range (up to £40 a bottle) this is by far and away the best single malt I have ever had the pleasure to taste. I can't describe how fulfilling it is. Without a doubt the best I have ever tasted, and I assure you, there have been many. This is miles and miles above anything else. If you want to venture into silly prices for good whisky, try this first. And I'm English, so what do I know eh?!

16th February 2012

Being an Islay fan this is one of the best examples of an Islay dram. It is silky smooth on the palate with what I got as sharp citrus flavours too. The only reason it does not get 5 stars is the finish was a little harsh compared to my favourite Islay; Caol Ila, but that is personal opinion!!

8th February 2012

Tastes simply like TCP.

2nd January 2012

Tried a sample of this at the glenkinchie distillery and bought myself a bottle. More balanced than many Islay drams with the peat smoke feeling more like a part of the flavour than hitting you in the face.

24th December 2011

My favourite of all whiskies. Then Talisker, then Laphroaig!

2nd December 2011

I had this while in a nice restaurant with a dozen friends. The nose is incredible and powerful, people could smell it way down the table. Each sip almost feels like liquid velvet!

30th November 2011

Out of Bruinladdich, laphroiag ,laph Qcask jura, talisker, lediag, highland Park and few more its prob my all time favourite smooth peaty smokey. Currently testing Jura 16year old, really nice but not as good as Lagavulin.

30th November 2011

A wonderfully rich flavour.Gorgeous.

15th August 2011

Lagavulin - Simply the BEST!

5th August 2011

this is my favorite islay malt, highly recommended

14th March 2011

five ice cubes into a tumbler,fill with lagavulin till you've covered the lower three cubes.Place on table,go to kitchen,get slice of smoked salmon,squeeze lemon on top. take bite, take slip of lagavulin. HEAVEN

12th March 2011

the best whiskey out there in my opinion, have tried many single malts and this is the one that i call the king

12th March 2011

A Whisky for all seasons and times , Best greatings from carinthia ( Austria)

25th February 2011

i love whisky,but this one just taste of TCP to me,and i was saveing it for ages

9th February 2011

As said above, this is unbeatable. A superlative, rich malt, with an unmistakable aroma.

Alex W

8th February 2011

simply .....the very best i have ever tasted.

19th January 2011

Simply the best dram out there. From the smoky sweet nose to the almost milky, salt, honey, smoke taste. Unbeatable. 100 points.

15th January 2011

Some of you may think that my whisky palate has not advanced enough yet, however I can only say it how I find it and I will be honest I do not find this whiskey enjoyable. I'm obviously just not an Islay whisky fan! If you have not tried this whisky before I recommend you go for the sample first.

27th December 2010

My favorite bedtime scotch. A blast of taste and nose

14th December 2010

One of the older peated whisky. Powerfull, but with balance.

27th September 2010

This is really great whisky.For me,its the best Islay whsiky! Ardbeg Uigeadail is close,but not close enough!

30th July 2010

This is a great starter Islay but it is too monotone, sweet and smooth for my palate. It has a lot of class but is a bit of an old smoothy. Lacks that briny hit, that salt, medicinal, astringency. Too sweet and cloying, like grandma's sherry. Treat yourself to a Bruichladdich Waves or Ardbeg 10 instead.

19th February 2010

My introduction to single malts and still, by a nose, my favorite. It is Islay in a bottle - peaty, complex yet eminently drinkable. This is the yardstick to measure the wonders of the Ardbegs, the succulence of Caol Ila, the earthy roughness of Laphaoig and the subtle pleasure of Talisker. If God made anything better, he kept it for himself.

26th January 2010

At some stage in your journey through Single Malts you will try Lagavulin. It is an experience like no other. After tasting Lagga the rest have to be very good whiskies to remain in the memory! Smoke & peat rich with tastes of the Islay salt it is quite simply unique and treasured amongst Single Malts. Worth every penny!

16th December 2009

Always have this at my local, so thought i'd buy a bottle. Smokey, rich, still sweet though, just great balance. love it. from Brian,

7th October 2009