This dram that demands pride and place. The jewel in the crown of the King of Islay, this is a big expression in every way. The first 26-year-old Lagavulin Special Release, this matured in first fill PX and first-fill Oloroso sherry seasoned casks. At 44.2% abv, this is a cask strength dram with a deep respect for the sherry cask style. Distilled in 1994, this is a flagship Islay whisky.

Winey aromas features alongside linseed oil, vinous top notes fading into butterscotch and smokiness on the nose. The palate has medium body, with an ultra-smooth, oily texture, capturing that precious sweet-smoky flavour that Lagavulin masters so well. The finish is long, sweetly warming, faintly smoky, with little hints of chanterelle mushrooms in a drying aftertaste.