I received this bottle of Lagavulin 8 from my mother in law at Christmas 2017. Although not a scotch drinker herself, she knows that I enjoy a good peaty dram and picked a real winner here. Thanks Jocelyn, you're the best mother in law I could have ever asked for! Nose: Lightly smoked, and salty (sweet smoked ham?). Palate: Peat and brine up front followed by fruity sweetness and smoke. Feels a bit oily, slight burn but very pleasant in the mouth, just want to keep swirling it on the tongue to experience every flavour nuance. Wow, absolutely the best 8 year old whisky I've had so far! A bit rough around the edges compared to the more refined 16 year old, but sometimes rough can be good and this is definitely good roughness. Finish: Medium length, sweet peaty smokey goodness. If I hadn't just recently tried the Lagavulin Distiller's Edition 2001 and Highland Park 18, I'd probably have given this bottle a 4.5/5. Still it's at the very least a solid 4+, especially considering the price and ABV. Definitely belongs in my top shelf and will become a regular purchase.