Lagavulin 16 Year Fèis Ìle 2017

Nose - Salt, mineral smoke, pears, lemon zest, golden raisins (w/ water) same Taste - Intense smoke, salt, golden raisins, moscato-like sharp sweetness that quickly fades, sweet cured meats (w/ water) Subdued smoke, less sweet, adds cracked black pepper, early lemon curd, candied bacon Finish - Golden raisins, salt, drying mineral-vibe, earth, sweet cured meat (w/ water) More minerals/earth/dirt, salty sweet, dirt covered lemons, golden raisins Score - 84/100 Final Thoughts - This one fared much better without the addition of water. It is much more vibrant and interesting without water as the sweetness shines through and there is less of an earth/dirt/mineral vibe. The Moscato finish is present on this one (I don't think I would've identified it as Moscato) but I would've guessed a sweet white grape finish or a lighter colored sweet spirit finish. Loads of golden raisins mixed with salty smoke and cured meats dominate. Tasty, but you definitely have to be in the mood for this one. Would I drink it if offered? - Yes Would I specifically order it? - Maybe Would I buy a bottle? - No NOTE - All reviews are done without factoring in price.

My first ever single malt scotch and the experience was incredible. The peat and smoke was like nothing I’d ever tasted before. This will always be special to me

Peaty and Smokey