Tastes

Like Christmas in a glass

If ever there was an easy bourbon to get in to, this is it. As my good friend @brent would say, "yummy. fucking yummy."

Fruit cake, raisins, candy canes. Lovely present from my dad.

Noticed the higher proof right away. You can also tell that it's a tad younger, but overall it's pretty standard Lagavulin. If you like Lagavulin 16 you'll like this. If you like Lagavulin 16 and this is more expensive, buy Lagavulin 16.

Had this leftover from a family tasting last year and decided to revisit. Would agree with others on the similarity to shochu. Wouldn’t likely buy another bottle or pour but interesting to try nonetheless.

Very very sweet. Not unpleasant but right up on the line for me. Nice and full. Couldn’t have it regularly, but it’s a treat.

Incredibly fruity, almost too much. Very bright but could see it being divisive.

Father’s Day gift for my dad. Really opened up with a bit of water. Luscious and delicious dessert flavors. Enjoyed it a lot.

This is red hots all the way down for me. Some younger ryes that have this characteristic are too sweet and sharp, but this has a nice underlying earthiness below the sweetness. I don't think I'd buy it, but glad I tried it.

Spotted the last bottle at my local so figured I’d give it a shot. Definitely has the classic Beam nuttiness that you’ll find across the whole portfolio. If anyone has had Little Book I definitely notice some similarities. While that one is a kick in the teeth, this is quite a bit more refined. The sherry influence is really enjoyable, though it’s right up to the line without going over it. Not sure I’d go out of my way to buy it again, but it’s an interesting one to keep around.