Lagavulin 12 Year Old Special Release 2022 – A Whisky Lover’s Ultimate Edition

The Lagavulin 12 Year Old Special Release 2022 is a pinnacle in peated Scotch whisky, standing out as a flagship of Diageo’s annual Special Releases. Hailing from the wild and rugged shores of Islay, this rare expression invites enthusiasts to experience the rich character of Lagavulin in its purest, cask-strength form. Whether you’re a seasoned single malt connoisseur or just beginning to explore the smoky side of Scotch, this bottle delivers an unforgettable journey.

What Makes the Lagavulin 12 Year Old 2022 Special Release Truly Stand Out?

First and foremost, this edition amplifies everything that fans love about Lagavulin—peat, power, and precision. However, what sets it apart even further is its bold cask strength presentation, typically around 56–58% ABV. Consequently, you’re invited to taste it in its most natural state, just as it was drawn from the barrel. With every sip, it reveals new layers of smoke, salt, sweetness, and spice.

Tasting Notes – From Nose to Finish

Nose:
Right from the start, the nose delivers a powerful maritime punch. Immediately, you’re greeted by intense notes of charred wood, seaweed, and iodine, softened slightly by whiffs of citrus zest, honeycomb, and vanilla pods. As it evolves, faint herbal and floral elements emerge, adding complexity to the briny peat smoke.

Palate:
From the very first taste, the unmistakable Islay peat makes its presence known. Following this, you’ll notice smoky bonfire embers entwined with orchard fruits like green apple. Meanwhile, toasted oak and cracked black pepper provide structure, as hints of caramel and golden syrup glide across the tongue. The texture is full-body and warming, holding your attention with each nuanced layer.

Finish:
As the flavors begin to recede, they leave a lasting warmth with echoes of mineral-rich smoke, spiced wood, and coastal salinity. Long, lingering, and deeply satisfying, it’s a finish that invites quiet reflection—or another pour.

Key Features – Why This Whisky Deserves a Spot in Your Collection

• Cask Strength Intensity: Bottled straight from the barrel, without dilution, this whisky offers raw and unfiltered depth for purists who seek the fullest possible experience.
• Refill American Oak Cask Maturation: The use of refill American oak enhances the natural spirit rather than overpowering it, allowing the distillery’s signature style to shine.
• A True Islay Expression: From the peated profile to the ocean-driven undertones, this release captures the very soul of the Islay terroir.
• Limited Edition Prestige: As part of Diageo’s exclusive 2022 Special Releases, availability is extremely limit once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Expert Pairing Suggestions – Elevate the Experience

To fully appreciate the flavor journey of Lagavulin 12 Year Old 2022, consider the following gourmet pairings:

• Dark Chocolate (70%+ cacao): The deep cocoa bitterness complements the smoke and sweetness, resulting in a rich and indulgent experience.
• Oysters or Smoked Salmon: These seafood classics mirror the whisky’s salty edge, creating a seamless blend of land and sea on your palate.
• Aged Blue Cheese: The funky, pungent notes of aged cheese pair beautifully with the bold character of the whisky, especially when served on a rye cracker.

Serving Suggestions – How to Enjoy Lagavulin 12 Year Special Release

• Neat: Perfect for those who want the full cask-strength impact.
• With Water: A splash of water can unlock hidden flavors and soften the peat slightly.
• On the Rocks: While purists may prefer it neat, a large ice cube can tame the intensity and make it more accessible to new drinkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the difference between this and standard Lagavulin 12 Year?
The Special Release 2022 is a cask-strength bottling, offering more pronounced flavors and intensity compared to the standard edition. It also features limit availability and is aged in refill American oak casks for a more refined profile.

2. Is it worth collecting?
Absolutely. Due to its limited production and inclusion in Diageo’s Special Releases, it holds long-term value for collectors and whisky investors alike.

3. Can I use it in cocktails?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. The complexity and strength are best experienced on their own or with a touch of water.

4. How should I store this whisky?
Store upright in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or temperature extremes to maintain quality over time.

5. What is its ABV?
This whisky is bottle at natural cask strength, which typically falls between 56% and 58% ABV. Check your bottle’s label for the exact figure.

Final Thoughts – Why Choose Lagavulin 12 Year Old Special Release 2022?

Ultimately, this release is more than just another peat Scotch—it’s a piece of Islay heritage capture in a bottle. Whether you’re gifting it, sipping it slowly on a quiet evening, or adding it to a prized collection, the Lagavulin 12 Year Special Release 2022 is a bold, balanced, and beautifully crafted whisky worth every dram.

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