Caol Ila Ratafia Champenois Cask T-090

The Bunnahabhain 2018, bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, is a Scottish single malt from the Islay region. With its 11 years and an ABV of 43%, it presents itself as a gentle introduction for whisky newcomers, but also has some rough edges that make it interesting for experienced connoisseurs.

The Caol Ila distillery on Islay is known for its accessible, clear smoky style – a welcome alternative to the island's more intense representatives. Independent bottler Malts of Scotland has selected a fascinating single cask with this 11-years bottling from 2011, which was released in 2023.

When it comes to Islay whiskies, there are two types of people: Those who love the intense smoke, and those who wonder if their glass has been matured in a bonfire. The Lagavulin 2024 11 Years Offerman 4th Edition is aimed at the former - those who see the scent of cold smoke and salty sea breeze as an invitation rather than a warning. This fourth collaboration between Nick Offerman and Lagavulin promises a typical Islay malt with a touch of originality.

Lagavulin is one of the most renowned names among Islay Single Malt Whiskies. Naturally, Diageo delves deep into the marketing bag of tricks (see Offerman Edition) to not only maintain this status but to aggressively expand it. Nevertheless, Lagavulin 16 remains a benchmark and one of our absolute favorites. A few years ago, the half-aged sibling, Lagavulin 8, was added to the standard range. Heavily peated and without sherry cask aging, this whisky aims to establish a younger and more purist standard. Today, we’re tasting to see if the “little Laga” can impress in terms of quality and flavor.