Lagavulin 8 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Islay, Scotland

The 2022 Lagavulin 8 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky from Islay, Scotland is a commemorative expression that honors two centuries of distilling heritage at one of the most iconic names in Scotch whisky. Originally released in celebration of the distillery's 200th anniversary, this limited edition captures the essence of Lagavulin's bold, smoky style while offering a nod to an “exceptionally fine” 8-year-old described by whisky chronicler Alfred Barnard in the 1880s. Aged in refill American oak casks and bottled at 48% ABV, this refined Islay malt delivers an unexpectedly intense experience that defies its age statement.

Product Details:

• Region: Islay, Scotland
• Distillery: Lagavulin
• Age: 8 Years
• ABV: 48%
• Cask Type: Refill American Oak
• Style: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
• Release: Limited Anniversary Edition (First bottled in 2016)

Sensory Description:

Pale gold in the glass, the whisky opens with a soft and clean nose of tea-scented smoke, lemon zest, milk chocolate, and maritime notes like fresh sea spray and newsprint. On the palate, it erupts with the unmistakable Lagavulin profile—smoky, sweet, and savory. A wave of peat smoke gives way to burnt sugar, charred oak, dark mint chocolate, and a briny midpalate that recalls oven-charred potato skins. The finish is long, clean, and smoky, leaving behind hints of brown sugar, dry tobacco, and warm spice. A drop of water reveals hidden layers of red berry, softer smoke, and enhanced sweetness.

Awards & Accolades:

• Double Platinum – 2023, ASCOT Awards
• Double Gold – 2023, SIP Awards
• Gold – 2023, New York International Spirits Competition
• Grand Gold – 2023, San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• Tried & True – 2022, Ultimate Beverage Challenge
• Double Gold – 2022, New York International Spirits Competition
• Silver – 2022 & 2021, San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• Double Gold – 2021, SIP Awards
• Consumers’ Choice – 2021, SIP Awards

Distiller's Background:

Established in 1816 by John Johnston, Lagavulin is one of the oldest distilleries on Islay and a cornerstone of heavily-peated Scotch whisky. Now owned by Diageo, Lagavulin continues to define the smoky style with its time-honored production methods and signature maritime character. The distillery has played a key role in the Classic Malts of Scotland collection, cementing its reputation among connoisseurs and collectors alike.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Lagavulin 8 Year Old neat or with a few drops of cool water to open up its depth. The ideal serving temperature is 60–65°F. Its rich smokiness pairs wonderfully with grilled lamb, smoked brisket, or aged Gouda. For a surprising twist, enjoy it with dark chocolate or sea salt caramels.

Evocative of Islay’s rugged coastlines and rich distilling tradition, the 2022 Lagavulin 8 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky delivers a bold, elegant drinking experience that celebrates its storied past while delighting modern whisky lovers with depth, balance, and unmistakable character.