Being Lagavulin 8 is hard. Basic core range, none of that legendary aura protecting you. Advanced and up drinkers will rather disregard you, basic ******* or beginners will hardly appreciate you. But still. There is the true blood of Lagavulin and Isla in each sip. Young blood, but still. But, the overpricing isn't helpful too. Maybe that's the final blow. You could be great in "welcoming the flock". Shoving that harsh Isla is also unexpectedly hospitable. But you got nonsensical price tag and that ruined your chances at that.
But I'll must defend you a bit. Yes it's hard to really appreciate you, because with that price tag milestone whisky enthusiasts already discovered quite a few bottles which perform better.
Even if you have also quite lot to offer. The smell - straightforward sea breeze over peat marshes, no bullshits. Like that friend who doesn't talk much but each words comes deep from him and carry the weight. The taste cut to the case too. Simple, light but direct, birch smoke, light brine and drop of pine forest honey. You dissapear on the back of the tong quite quickly, but that's OK. You didn't lived through as much as else in your 8 years on Isla, but you built clear character instead. Straightforward and reliable.
I would love to rate you better, but in your case the cost ratio just brings it down. Forgive me for that.