Neat, new bottle, Glencairn glass. Appearance: Typical light, crystal clear, oily Nose: I was initially caught off guard by the nose. It was different from prior Lagavulin 12s. My first impression was that it was a bit pungent on the nose. It had a blunted peat and smoke profile compared to many other Lagavulin offerings. There is cocoa on the nose as well. Palate: The peat is more than what is anticipated from the nose. Cocoa continues though not too sweet or bitter. Hint of sherry. Some oily leather and a little banana. Finish: A gentle steady fade, like a setting sun on a prairie. Oily leather lingers. Very pleasant. Overall, I am a huge fan of the Lagavulin 12 since being introduced to it in the mid 2010’s. It is hard tk beat the 2017 edition but this ranks right up there with it.