Lagavulin 12-year-old Special Release 2021 - King Islay in full power Lagavulin 12 Year Old Special Release 2021 is a unique edition of single malt whiskey from the Lagavulin distillery on the island of Islay, released as part of the annual Diageo Special Releases 2021 series under the slogan "Legends Untold". This 12-year-old whiskey, distilled in 2008 and matured in refill barrels after American oak bourbon, has been bottled at 56.5% ABV barrel strength, which highlights its intense, unfiltered nature. The 700 ml bottle, from a limited edition, symbolizes "The Lion's Fire" - the lion of fire, with a label decorated with a phoenix motif in flames, which gives it a unique, collector's charm. History and production Lagavulin distillery, founded in 1816 in the picturesque bay of Islay, has been producing one of the most iconic single malt whiskies for more than two centuries, valued for its deep peat smoke and sea saltiness. This special edition, part of the prestigious Diageo series, stands out for its maturation in refill American barrels, which allow for subtle development of flavors without the dominance of wood, preserving the classic essence of Lagavulin. The production process is based on traditional barley peating, which gives the whiskey a characteristic smoky profile, and bottling in barrel power ensures maximum intensity without dilution. Tasting notes Aroma: Fresh and sea, with notes of dry peat, Himalayan salt, smoked Lapsang Souchong tea, seaweed and lemon peel, interspersed with delicate wood smoke and subtle sweetness of caramel. Taste: Smooth and oily, with the initial sweetness of salted caramel, turning into intense smoke from the campfire, lemon acidity, hot chilli pepper and sea saltiness, enriched with smoked oysters and olives. Finish: Long and warm, with waves of smoke, tare, green wood and spicy chilli, leaving a lasting impression of salty sweetness and smoky depth. This whiskey is ideal for tasting solo or with a little water, which soothes the sharpness and brings out additional citrus and mineral notes. Packaging and condition The bottle is packed in elegant, green cardboard with a phoenix and flame motif, emphasizing the theme "Crackling Spice Burst" - a burst of spicy spices. The label on the bottle, in gold, contains detailed information about the 2021 special edition, with a serial number and a hologram of authenticity. No signs of damage, full content of 70 cl, ideal for collectors.