Lagavulin 12 Years ‘Grain & Embers’ (56.5%, OB, Diageo Special Releases 2025)

Matured in refill casks and Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso-seasoned European oak butts

Nose: Refill casks indeed, as the Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso aren’t leading the way. Hints of vegetal, earthy peat and saline coastal notes, even slightly medicinal. Quite phenolic and hints of bonfire smoke with burnt toast. Some gentle olive brine accompanied with antiseptic and damp leaves. Soft ashes too. Rather brash.
Taste: A fairly oily texture. First a good pinch of white pepper with ashes and a generous vegetal peat influence. Also hints of dried seaweed, walnuts and strong filter coffee. Then liquorice root and smoked raisins.
Finish: Long. Proper wood smoke with burnt caramel, ashes and cappuccino, as well as a generous earthiness.