#Scotland #Scotch Whisky #Lagavulin #Islay

Lagavulin 11 Year Old Sweet Peat: A New Era of Islay Whisky

The world of whisky is forever changed with the introduction of Lagavulin 11 Year Old Sweet Peat, a remarkable addition from the famed distillery located on the enchanting Islay island in Scotland. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich distilling history, Islay has captured the hearts of whisky connoisseurs for centuries. Now, with this new expression, Lagavulin continues its legacy of craftsmanship, complexity, and balancing flavors.

Having aged in first-fill American oak ex-bourbon casks for a full 11 years, Sweet Peat unveils a smooth sweetness derived from both oak and malt. This perfectly harmonizes with Lagavulin's iconic smoky character, creating a drinking experience unlike any other. Connoisseurs will delight in the hints of toffee apple, vanilla, and soft spice that meld beautifully, while still ensuring the unmistakable taste of Lagavulin remains at the forefront.

Dr. Stuart Morrison, the Master Blender at Diageo, emphasizes the carefully curated selection of casks and the intentional maturation process that underpins this expression. The initial sip reveals a gentle sweetness that intertwines with slight salinity, leading to the classic Lagavulin smokiness and oak spiciness. The palate further encounters honeyed malt and toffee apple notes, culminating in a long, satisfying finish featuring lingering peat smoke, dark chocolate, and delicate vanilla.

Awarded a prestigious Gold Medal at the 2025 San Francisco Wine & Spirits Competition, Lagavulin 11 Year Old Sweet Peat embodies the distillery’s commitment to traditional whisky-making methods. Utilizing heavily peated malt, the distillation is carried out in unique squat pear-shaped copper pot stills. This method fosters a full-bodied spirit that ensures the enduring presence of peat throughout the maturation process, while layers of sweetness emerge seamlessly.

The introduction of Sweet Peat serves as an invitation for both newcomers and long-time fans to rediscover the depth and complexity of Lagavulin's creations. It broadens the appeal of Islay whisky with its rounded profile, highlighting the nuances brought forth through meticulous cask selection and maturation practices. This expression elegantly aligns with modern drinking tendencies, whether enjoyed thoughtfully at a boutique hotel bar or during relaxed evenings at home. Sweet Peat is best savored neat or on the rocks and serves as a delightful base for both classic and innovative cocktails.

Among the creative cocktail ideas featuring Sweet Peat is the Smoky Sweet Old Fashioned, which offers a subtly spiced, orange-infused take on the timeless classic. Another intriguing option is the Sweet Peat Tea, a refreshing concoction that layers honey-ginger syrup, fresh lemon, and cold black tea for a light aromatic experience.

In a statement, Jesse Damashek, Senior Vice President of Whiskey at Diageo, remarked on the evolving perceptions of peat; he noted that while it can have polarizing effects on some drinkers, Sweet Peat presents this essential flavor in a more accessible manner without compromising the depth and complexity inherent to Lagavulin.

Lagavulin 11 Year Old Sweet Peat is available at select retailers nationwide, with a suggested retail price of $69.99 for a 750mL bottle. For the connoisseurs looking to explore this unique offering, or those seeking to find nearby stores or order a bottle for delivery, more information can be found at malts.com.

Lagavulin has long been a leader in the Scotch whisky world, with a history that goes back to its founding in 1816. Known for its expertly crafted spirits, including the legendary Lagavulin 16 Year Old, the distillery continues to innovate with expressions like 11 Year Old Sweet Peat, thereby ensuring its place in the hearts and glasses of whisky lovers around the world. With a commitment not only to quality but also to responsible enjoyment, Lagavulin invites everyone to explore these remarkable flavors responsibly.