Lagavulin – 1991 33 Year Old Cask of Distinction (70cl, 54.5%)

This is a 33 year old Lagavulin from the Cask of Distinction series, distilled in 1991 and bottled in 2024 at a cask strength of 54.5% ABV. Only 96 bottles were filled, in a 70cl size. The whisky matured in a PX and Oloroso-seasoned European oak butt, then rested in a quarter cask. The nose is richly aromatic, with dark winey notes, fragrant bath oil, dried rosemary and newly oiled willow. The palate is smooth, sweet at first and lightly salty, then muscular and lightly spicy, with smoke and chilli pepper heat. The finish is long, fragrant and smoky, and water brings a cooling, eucalyptus-like aftertaste.