The smoky pretty boy... | Lagavulin 16 REVIEW

#islaywhisky #lagavulin16 #singlemaltreview
I think most of you know this one. It's a single malt scotch from Islay. It's EXTREMELY famous. I've got the ol' Laga 16 with me today. I'll taste it and give you my thoughts. Cheers!
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[@GrotrianSeiler]

Another great review, Geoff. The best part of your videos is how unbiased and unaffected you come across. So far better than many other reviewers out there. And no gimmicks. I love that. Great channel. So many options.

[@Gwhisky]

High praise. I'm very flattered Grotrian! Appreciate the viewership and the kind words! 🥃🙏

[@jose9rinconin]

The best description of this whiskey I've seen so far or at least it's the closest to my personal experience with it. I think it's a fantastic whisky, balanced, tasty, sweet and that shouldn't overwhelm anyone since I think that all its notes are perfectly integrated and there is not one that stands out above the others. The smoke definitely shouldn't scare anyone who has never drunk such a whiskey. Congratulations on the channel, undoubtedly one of the best👌🏻

[@mrch4se]

Got a bottle for Christmas off the parents it’s going to be my New Year’s Eve dram to see in 2022 - thanks Geoff as always great content

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks a lot Matt. Enjoy and Happy New Year! 🥂

[@jasonwest9425]

Great review. It was the first “Smokey” whisky I tried. That was some years before I started to explore more.

[@Gwhisky]

I think it was a lot of people's "first." Cheers! 🥃

[@dribsanddrams]

I just discovered you today, and I'm doing a little binge-watching. Lagavulin 16 was my gateway whisky way back when. I haven't reviewed it on my channel because I only do whiskies that I've never had before, but even then, the crazy price it sits at would lose it massive points for me. I'm also really Diageo-averse. I think they're terrific at putting out almost-great juice, but hobbling the product in the name of easy sales. PS: I like your little chart with the ABV and the chill-filter info. It's really similar to what I do in every first-pour review I do.

[@Gwhisky]

Agree the Laga is overpriced in most markets. That and the low abv make it a no go for a lot of people. It's cheaper Herr in Taiwan, but even then it's not something I'll keep buying of the price rises. Cheers!

[@judahlion5826]

Excellent and truthful review!

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Judah! 🥃

[@davidowen2834]

Hi Geoff, I buy this when its on offer, starting to jump in price now but when one thinks that the 8 yr old ( which I prefer) is more then half the price of the 16, the price is not to bad, don’t forget it is 16 yrs old after all. Still, its still an iconic scotch single malt . Thanks Geoff for putting out good and honest reviews, am enjoying them. Slàinte

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks a lot, David. You've been very supportive of me/the channel and it's truly appreciated. 🙏

[@joeynickles7962]

I appreciate the darker bottle actually. One of the few aspects of the presentation Diageo got right. Helps protect the whiskey against UV damage.

[@andynelson5864]

That you haven't reviewed this whisky earlier is actually something I appreciate. Yes, it's a legend. Yes, it started many of us on our journeys. Of course we're interested in hearing what you have to say about it since we look forward to watching your candid, thorough reviews. But you've broken in rather impressively without having to go to this well-established "star" earlier in your career as a reviewer. Having said all that, despite how elegant and sophisticated it is, and given its higher price tag and lower ABV, I can't squeeze it into my current (and too-limited) lineup. If someone offers me a dram or two, I won't refuse! Still, I am interested in trying its younger 8-year-old brother.

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks for the kind words, Andy. I think a lot of people feel similarly to you about this bottle. I still like it but if the rumoured price hikes come to pass, this may well be my last bottle of this stuff... Cheers! 🥃

[@adrodog17]

My favourite peated whisky. It’s rich, refined and rewarding

[@aguy1075]

Agreed - it’s a solid dram, in spite of the Diageoness…and they have kept the price accessible for a 16. That said, the Sanaig gives it a good run for less money and a richer, but similar flavor profile. Not a 16, but a great, affordable alternative.

[@Gwhisky]

I would 💯% agree with that...

[@sylvainsoucy2537]

Great video as usual 👌

[@Gwhisky]

Appreciate that, thanks, Sylvain! 🥃

[@xiamengbaby]

I love reading these captions. Instead of saying "I don't think I even not liked drinking Lagavulin..." it read, "I don't think I ever not liked drinking like a villain". Damn, you are a bada$$! 😆

[@Gwhisky]

😂😂😂

[@howardbecdove9780]

Geoff, I was such a great athlete 10 years ago, man you should have seen me back then. 😜😂 oh! You should have seen the fish that got away. Seriously…. from now on I’m only drinking “integrity malts”, with the exception of Lag 16, which I’ll never be without. It breaks all my rules, but fulfills all my expectations. Love it. LOVE iT! 😩

[@Gwhisky]

😂😂😂

[@christinecamley]

My husband Joel bought a case last week!! He loves it on hand and we have many Lagavulin scotch loving guests coming - about to descend for a wedding!! Yay!! Love wedding and seeing people in love - yes I cry at weddings!! Lol!! Several Islay lovers are staying with us! Great thoughts on Lagavulin 16 Geoff!! This was my gateway into peat - elegant, refined, classy, delicious! I wish the ABV was46% at least! Cheers!! 🙂Joel also bought a case of Lagavulin Offerman 11 4th Edition - Benromach 15 - love it too, his big win at our whisky club of an Ardbeg 25 (fabulous!!) will help celebrate the new couple soon!! 🙂 Lag 16 - $200 with taxes in Vancouver - hey what can I say? I love it!! 🙂

[@Gwhisky]

Nothing beats a summer wedding, especially if you've got some Laga 16 on hand. Glad to hear you're such a fan of it. There's always the Diageo specs complaints, and they're valid, but like you I just love this stuff. Cheers and enjoy the wedding! 🥃

[@christinecamley]

@@Gwhisky Thanks Geoff!! 🙂

[@canal-do-guga-namura]

Watching this and sipping it myself. It’s so much better than it has any right to be at 43% and chillfiltered. Reminds me of Macallan 12 as in both excellent whiskies regardless of poor specs. One would be smart not to miss on those for not being integral bottlings. Cheers!

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah it's great. The price though. Tough these days. Undeniably a legend, though. 🥃

[@groberti]

Nice review! Age stated islay whiskeys did get super expensive for sure, sadly. I guess Caol Ila 12, Bowmore 12/15, Laphroaig 10, Ardbeg 10 are "reasonably" priced for a smokey Islay and age stated if we hunt for examples 😁 Of course Buna 12 as well but that one is not smokey.

[@jamesdoolan7966]

The snob in me wants to hate this as it’s Diageo and low alcohol… also the colourings… but I love it. Just really nicely rounded whiskey.

[@xXChronoTriggerXx13]

I'm just slowly getting into Islay scotch, but really starting to enjoy the earthy briny smokey notes. I will have to grab a bottle of this to continue my journey. I have a bottle of the Ardbeg Uigeadail, but am a bit intimidated to open it, so maybe I will try this first. Great review as always!

[@Gwhisky]

The Laga 16 and the "Oogie" are at two different ends of the Islay spectrum. I think you'll learn a lot about where your preferences lie from both of them! Cheers and thank you for the kind words! 🥃

[@fernmcclear2789]

Karl, no need to wait. Just jump in, the water is warm! You won’t regret it. Tassttyyy! Slainte. Happy New Year!

[@canal-do-guga-namura]

Are you only new to Islay scotch or single malts in general? If you're new to scotch in general those 55% on the Uigedal can be a bit much. If that's the case I'd say it makes sense to train your palate a bit more... make sure you are ready to actually enjoy the bottle as it's not super cheap. Slanthé

[@stihlnz]

Thanks Geoff, a great review... the distillers edition is better, more complexity and the 12 year old 56.5% is a different animal altogether, a great righteous monster of a thing, though hard to get. Very much in the vogue of the Laphroaig cask strength 10 year compared to the standard 10.. I'm tending to lean towards high ABV as a rule now. Being 62 I do remember the old bottles having more character. There is a rare Nick Offerman 11 year 46% that would be interesting. Happy New Year

[@Gwhisky]

Thank you, Tom. I don't think you need to go too far back to find better quality bottles. I feel like even 5 or so years ago the quality was better than it is now. Certainly was when I got into whisky about 12 years back. Btw I LOVE the Laga 12 cask strength. I've had a few of them over the years and they're always absolute beasts! I seem to remember the 2011 being a favourite, but none of them have disappointed. Cheers and Happy New Year! 🥃

[@greigmartin4339]

I have had my ups and downs with Lag16 but it’s always been on the shelf with a backup in store. For years it had been available in 🇬🇧 supermarket at £50 and for 16 year old whisky you couldn’t argue even with Diageo’s presentation. Then the 8 year came out for roughly the same price and imo surpassed the 16, the spirit shone through and shed a light on the 16s flaws (increasingly tired oak, E150 damp teabag finish). The 16 seemed to disappear from the supermarkets earlier this year and I held off buying a backup as the price at other retailers were all around £65. Then I hear about upcoming price hikes. I fear the handful of drams I have left may be my last I have of this classic. I can get a peat/sherry monster done better for less with Sanaig, Uigeadail, Lore, Toiteach a dha or Bowmore 15 if I’m in a bind.

[@Gwhisky]

Agree, at this point there are better, cheaper, craft-presented options. It's a classic, but these price hikes are getting out of hand. Barely worth it anymore in my market, I'm not sure if I'll be buying any more of this stuff down the line... Cheers Greig! 🥃

[@richardiandoli7437]

Lagavulin 16 was among the first single malts i discovered almost 30 years ago. I agree that it could be better if bottled at 46% or higher; however, I don’t think the juice was better back then. I think my palate has evolved. Still a very good dram and a bottle I generally keep on hand at all times. It’s a solid 87 for me. Also, agree with your assessment on value. This was a buy all day at $60-70. At $100+, I would sooner go for an Ardbeg Corryvreckan.

[@Gwhisky]

I can say with certainty that my palate has evolved, but that's not to say the whisky has remained the same. Imo it's a bit of both! Good dram, indeed. But yeah I don't think this can remain competitive over the USD $100 mark. It's good but there are so many better options, especially in that price range. Cheers Richard! 🥃

[@rochesterjohnny7555]

I'm a huge mark for Lagavulin 16 but that's what I have always thought about it too if they just increase the % by a few points it would be perfection

[@canal-do-guga-namura]

I tried it at my inlaw's and thought it was simply fantastic. A good deal popped up today and I ordered mine. I'm pretty serious about my whisky journey but it's been only a year, so I'm more than satisfied with 43%... Can handle and enjoy 46%, even 48%... but tried the A'bunadh at 61.5% and it was just a bit too much for me. 43% so far to me is probably more an advantage than a handicap. So far.

[@WhiskyLock]

For me the sticking point with this one (apart from ABV) is the price. I too remember when this was much cheaper and was a good value every day dram. Here in the UK it's roughly doubled in price over the last 10 years (much faster than Diageo's Talisker 10 and Caol Ila 12) with further steep price hikes rumoured for the new year. It seems like Diageo have decided to remove it from the whisky drinker's cabinet and place it on a pedestal next to JW Blue Label. You make a very good point about there not really being many alternatives for a proper age statement Islay. Probably a large part of why people continue to buy and recommend this at £70 a bottle. Thanks for the video!

[@Gwhisky]

I agree. In the video I stated that it's already at the outer limit of reasonable pricing here in Taiwan. I'm not sure if I'll be buying more of this down the line, especially if it's slated for even more price hikes. With all these high-quality craft new distilleries popping up and world whiskies becoming more and more competitive, Diageo is out of their mind if they think we'll pay a small fortune for a 43% chill-filtered coloured whisky, good as it may be. Cheers buddy, loved the holiday vids! 🥃

[@WhiskyLock]

@@Gwhisky thanks Geoff. I was thinking the exact same thing the other day; there are SO many new distilleries popping up that offer full craft whisky and cheaper than this. Diageo are going to have to either adapt or stick to their mid range blends. Cheers!

[@romaincourtois6611]

Hi Geoff, just curious to know your opinion/preference between the lagavulin 8 and the 16 if you had to choose one. I find the 8 yo to have more complexity and character than the mellow 16 as you rightly said so in your review. Looking forward to the next review mate and wishing you a happy new year!

[@Gwhisky]

I'll be reviewing the 8 down the line for sure. In the meantime I'll say this: the 8 is better value. Cheers Romain! 🥃

[@olegzhokhsrightarm8849]

Completely agree with your review. This is a fantastic dram for those who have just started their peat love affair, but becomes a bit too tame and muted for more experienced peatheads.

[@user-qr7no3cd2h]

43abv is too low

[@m.andre824]

I've been looking for my favourite/staple entry level peaty scotch and just today did a side by side of the Ledaig 10, and samples of Lagavulin 16 and Port Charlotte 10. I came to the conclusion that that the Ledaig 10 and the PC10 were on par with each other while the Lagavulin 16 was very unique in its smell but a bit weak in flavor intensity. I wondered if it was the 43% or if it was due to the side by side with the other two. I still really enjoyed it but I started questioning if there was something I was missing. I'm glad to see you more or less rate all three the same way (equal on the Ledaig and PC, slightly lower but still good on the Lagavulin).

[@Gwhisky]

Great minds think alike! 🥃

[@andreipuscarenco532]

Great review! I have a question for u: will u review at some point some kavalans? I am interested to buy some but need ur reviews to decide 😁

[@Gwhisky]

Sure! Those reviews are coming! 🥃

[@tjross1313]

Ahh... the leather armchair, crackling fire in the study dream... I put myself there all the time too! Maybe in another 15-20 years!

[@welshtoro3256]

I love this review. I drifted away from Lagavulin 16 a few years ago, like many of us did, due to the low abv. I dabbled with the 8 but wasn't convinced about that one. The main beast was Lagavulin 12 which we all thought was the boss. The thing is, I've become increasingly divorced from the 12 as the price has drifted in Diageo's shameless rip-off territory. So, about a year ago I bought my first Lagavulin 16 for years and it was an amazingly pleasant reunion. I'd forgotten what a really well made whisky it is. Tons of smoke but so well integrated with the sixteen years and some very nice sherry. Very good sherry in fact. Some distilleries have a single expression which is a benchmark for that distillery's character; Talisker 10; Kilkerran 12; Ardbeg 10, etc. They may, or may not, be our favourites but they are the expression by which we judge the other expressions and their value. I think Lagavulin 16 is that expression. I find it delicious and exceptionally drinkable. I'm reconverted. We all want Lagavulin 16 to have higher abv, of course, but there are reasons why Diageo don't do that and, for once I would, grudgingly, understand. Lagavulin 16 is part of Diageo's Malts of Scotland range and sits in bars and restaurants all over the world. Unlike us, most of the customers in those establishments will find 43% to be high strength and it's peaty too so quite a challenge. If they raised it to 46-48% the price would have to increase quite considerably for a sixteen year old Islay malt with sherry from a legendary distillery. That would put it out of the price range of millions of casual buyers. It wouldn't make any business sense unless they made two versions of it but I don't think the distillery could cope. We ought to remember, as well, that the real reason for the production of Lagavulin is to provide filler for the blends.

[@Gwhisky]

I like the whisky, but I put this video out before the price hikes hit the bottle here. Shortly after I made this the price jumped up substantially in Taiwan. If I were to remake the video now, I'd probably be much less forgiving. When it was still (relatively) affordable I was willing to overlook the abv and colourant simply because, like you, I thoroughly enjoy the whisky. But with the new price tag, I expect something more competitive. Great whisky but Diageo has done this to Laga 16, Oban 14, and Talisker 18 now. Three whiskies that were near and dear to my heart that I simply don't want to buy nowadays. Cheers WT. 🥃

[@welshtoro3256]

@@Gwhisky Fortunately for us in the U.K it hasn't spiked too much and you can still pick it up for £75. That's only about £15 more than it was 8 years ago.

[@jeffmill999]

I had a dram the other night after over a year and it was delicious. I had bought my 16 the same day I bought 2014 D.E. liter...The 700ml 16 was $73us...the liter of D.E. was $135us. I drank that D.E. like it was koolaid...blew me away... I saw it for $71us the other day. I will grab one soon. I really want the other old D.E. even more... I can find it all day for $71-75 here in Cambodia.. Beyond a bargain... Cheers...

[@rochesterjohnny7555]

For me its still the GOAT , there has been an incredible consistency for the 20 years I have been drinking Lagavulin 16 and I would also take into consideration the value in paying $100 plus or minus 5 for this bottle for the past couple of years. Balvenie 17 and 21 are really damn good but you're looking at $200 and $250 there, I had a taste of Laphroiag Cairdeas that was fantastic but I can never get a bottle of that one, so all things considered Lagavulin 16 is my #1 for 2 decades and probably will be for 3.

[@Gwhisky]

Glad you enjoy it! I don't find it quite as consistent as you do but it's definitely delicious stuff. The qbv and the ever-growing price tag are bothersome though. 🥃

[@lewisbh2092]

I think that my bottle of lagavulin 16 was much better when it was newly opened (the nose in particular). It became kind of flat after a few weeks. I have many bottles, and it is the first time that a whisky evolves (for the worst) like that. I'm curious if some of you guys had the same experience.

[@WhiskyLoversSociety]

Nice review.

[@Gwhisky]

Thank you, sir. 🙏 Keep the great videos coming!

[@nickyuen01]

what are the other alternatives that's better around the same price range (or cheaper)?

[@dairyyang5457]

I have tried the 16yo and 12yo both, and even it's weaker I like 16yo more for not-so-smoky and complexity. Happy New year!

[@Gwhisky]

Hah I prefer the 12 myself, but it takes a mood. This is a calmer casual sipper, so I get it! Cheers my friend and Happy New Year! 🥂🥃

[@dairyyang5457]

@@Gwhisky And also congrats for 2K describers!!!

[@Gwhisky]

@@dairyyang5457 Thanks Allan! 🙏

[@farklestaxbaum4945]

This is the bottle that got me into scotch, by accident, I tasted one glass at my dads house after going YEARS where I didn't like whisky, and this was the bottling that changed my mind. I still think its a bit overpriced for what you get (mostly branding) but an excellent choice for a celebration or gift.

[@Gwhisky]

It's still a beauty, I agree. The price hike is frustrating, and I don't know how often I'll be inclined to revisit it now that it's so expensive, but I'll always have a soft spot for this one myself! 🥃

[@DONTSASSMEBOI]

Can you recommend a 'not overpriced' equivalent?

[@farklestaxbaum4945]

@@DONTSASSMEBOI Laphroig 10 is similar and about half the price

[@tombryan1]

I prefer the Distillers Edition, seems to bring a bit more body, a little sweeter which carries into the finish. I haven't opened one in about a year, still have open Ardbegs to attend to.

[@Gwhisky]

I've had a few of the DE expressions. Good stuff! In my market quite a price bump over the 16 though...

[@rostislavtraps7148]

the 2021 DE is only 15 yo, not sure why

[@liamclarke5006]

Agree with you your take on this whisky have you tried the white horse bottling and is it worth buying it

[@Gwhisky]

Sorry Liam I haven't tried it. 🥃

[@simonweaire7437]

Nice review Geoff, as always. Laga 16 is a classic dram and whilst I lament the ABV and likely chill-filtration, I commend the blender's skill in getting that peat/sherry balance in near-perfect harmony. It is truly a refined, gentleman's dram. A word on price; whilst this still just about qualifies as acceptable value in the UK at 65 GBP (if you can find it), there are strong rumours - that I've seen from more than one source - that Diageo are planning some eye-watering price increases for four of their single malts in Feb 2022. The new MSRP/RRP rumours (with significant +/- error margin): Oban 14 £95 Laga 16 £95 Tali 18 £250 Tali 25 £450 If these are even close to true, then Laga 16 will very shortly price itself out of my budget (OK, I could afford the odd bottle, but there are much better-presented whiskies to spend 95 GBP / 130 USD on). Let's hope this turns out to be false! Have a great New Year and best wishes for 2022!

[@Gwhisky]

Damn I hope that doesn't happen. But tell you what, if it does, I'll be done with the lot of them. Imo they're already creeping up on too "overpriced" as it is, and the specs are nonsense. We vote with our wallets, and I'm perfectly happy to either slow down or stop buying Diageo stuff altogether if they're going to play that game. Plenty of high-quality better-priced craft whiskies out there... Cheers Simon. A happy 2022 to you as well. 🥃

[@dairyyang5457]

Tali 18 £250? Crazy...What's going on there?

[@simonweaire7437]

@@dairyyang5457 Diageo premiumisation. They're going to try and make Talisker the next Mortlach (at least the older age statements).

[@dairyyang5457]

It will be the end of the world for fans of talisker if that days come...

[@simonweaire7437]

@@dairyyang5457 Outside of those four I listed, it's rumoured that all other Diageo single malts will be going up by 6% across the board, so Tali 10 will still be (relatively) affordable, depending on the local market.

[@DJMJRyder]

Probably safe to say that if they didn't chill filter that the finish would last longer

[@greenvalley651]

I love it, I try to always have it on my shelf,

[@Gwhisky]

Any price hikes yet in your market?

[@greenvalley651]

@@Gwhisky yes, it keeps going up, Lagavulin here in NW Arkansas is 100$ or 110$. thats why I said, I always try to keep the 16 years old on my shelf but sometimes I cant and I get the 8 which is 60$

[@Gwhisky]

@@greenvalley651 Yeah I get it. Honestly the 8 is better value.

[@greenvalley651]

@@Gwhisky I think so too, I also like a lot talisker 10 that you recently did a review, I get that talisker 10 here for 65$ a great value too,

[@StamfordBridge]

“Some rooibos tea. Some oysters. A little bit of grenadine. We have sea air. We have Himalayan rock salt. We have ribs slathered in barbecue sauce. Maybe some sliced oranges in there.” I have never nosed a whisky and been able to rattle off a list like that. 😝

[@Gwhisky]

Hah I admit I go a bit overboard sometimes. I'm trying to reel it in and keep things simple these days. 😂

[@StamfordBridge]

@@Gwhisky I wasn’t criticizing you! I was being self-deprecating! I love my single malt, but my palate is just not developed enough (yet?) to conjure up such a world of distinct flavors.

[@seanmurphy2163]

Gave my Dad Ardbeg, (he has always known Laphroig) and I got him this for his 84th Bday. SUCCESS!! out if all the Islays...this is his.

[@Gwhisky]

Great to hear it! Your dad has good taste! 🥃

[@maltontiger3144]

For me the most underwhelming Islay core range malt. Definitely one that lives on its reputation rather than quality. I thought maybe I had a bad batch but trying a friend's 6 months later confirmed it for me. I just find it dull and quite watery. Would take anything from Port Charlotte, Kilchoman or Ardbeg over this. Add to the that the pricing is now absurd. Definitely miss for me! Congrats on the 2k subscribers, well deserved 👏

[@Gwhisky]

Thank you Ramiz. I understand your point. It's definitely getting too expensive and it's light. A lot of the love for this bottle comes from nostalgia and getting attached to it early on in the "journey." I'll admit I still have a soft spot for it despite the current circumstances.

[@ConcaCon]

I just can't with the price of this stuff anymore. I've always loved it dearly, and it's been my gateway whisky. But within one year, the price went from 55-ish to 75-ish EUR. Oh well, I've bought the 8yo Lagavulin for 42 EUR on offer. Better presented at 48% ABV, too.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah the price is climbing here too. As I said, this one won't be worth it for much longer. If it's already crossed that line in the sand for you, I totally get it. As soon as a whisky becomes overpriced it's our job to NOT buy it anymore!

[@deeshmond]

Exact same thing happened here in the UK. I got a bottle for £49 in January 2021. One year later it was £75+ everywhere. I get we’re in a time of inflation but not sure how they can justify a 50% price increase. Love the scotch but zero chance I’m paying for a bottle at this new price

[@joeynickles7962]

Extremely overpriced. Diageo gonna Diageo. Excellent marketing though if you’re big on paying for that.

[@FreedsFirstTime_Whisky_Reviews]

2k!! nice man!!

[@FreedsFirstTime_Whisky_Reviews]

for the record, you could absolutely pull off a mustache.... do it..........do it...

[@Gwhisky]

Hah gf will kill me! 🥃

[@clefferdlopez9417]

How to distinguish Himalayan salt in there?

[@ironmantran]

LOL ! Laga-16 used to be called the "Elder Stateman" . . . yup, halcion days' Laga-16 is THICK on the palate ! !

[@Gwhisky]

Hah how have I never heard that? 🥃

[@jamesstamp8567]

Good review. Personally I like the Lagavulin 8 better. How about a review on it?

[@Gwhisky]

It's on the to-do list! 🥃

[@kellywellington7122]

Heh...Lag 16 is one of the most engaging roadside attractions on my Quest to find a decent peated whisky. I had long had a bottle of Laphroaig 10 which I kept on hand to introduce guests to the nature of heavily peated whiskies. I had heard that age softened the peat aspect, as it was the first to dissipate, so I figured the 16 years of aging were a positive in my search for a "lilting hint of peat smoke", having toned down the brutal in-your-face smokiness of the other Islay stars. So, yes, it was softened, but not enough. But, it wasn't what I was looking for....I found what I like in Benromach 15, where I can sit around the fire enjoying my drink, without having the column of smoke blow directly into my face. I'll eventually drink it down, which is more than I can say for Laphroaig 10. Here, the Lag 15 breaks the $100 US mark in retail price. Barely.

[@Gwhisky]

Laga 16 has shot up in price way too much. I love it, and I'm a big fan of the forward peaty profile, but it's too expensive, and like you, I prefer the Benromach 15. Beautiful stuff! 🥃

[@kellywellington7122]

@@Gwhisky Yeah...I'm going back for the other bottle the outlet had. I note I've cozied up to the Benromach 15. And I haven't even had my high risk buds over to taste it. I need to stock up (which I've never done before). I'm still waiting for the 'special order' of Benromach 10 to come in. The likker nanny is sitting on their fanny. I'm gonna man up and special order a A'Bunadh, too. That's not readily available (one retail bottle in the entire state of Oregon).

[@jre617]

About $80 at Total Wine these days. I like it, but it's less smokey than I hoped. I still like Laphroaig 10 better for its heavier smoke, but I'm not very sophisticated about it.

[@joeynickles7962]

Finish is medium in length? I think that’s being pretty generous.

[@ZOA2533]

I hope my first peated whisky is caol ila or Lagavulin... When I ask for a smoked flavor whisky (my first bottle), the shop owner introduced Ardbeg 10, you can imagine my reaction after the first taste...

[@Gwhisky]

Hah. It's a bruiser! Not the most gentle introduction, but a good one!

[@1luv4j]

Super leather pete smokey, apricot, Carmel apple. Pare well with Smoke salmon, bbq, smoked gouda, and anything smoked. Let it breath!

[@PSNeko]

Hey Goeff, i do enjoy it, but i prefer the 8 year old and the 16 seems to get quite expensive here in Germany... :(

[@Gwhisky]

Sorry to hear that. Seems the price is climbing everywhere. I guess we'll all have to stop buying it pretty soon!

[@tom4711]

Nice Video. In a direct comparison with an older Sample, I find the "new" Lagavulin 16 a bit worse (not as creamy, not as intense, the smoke is lighter, overall duller). As I said, I had the direct comparison. Still a good whisky, but I don't like to drink more than a Dram or 2 Drams a night.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I remember the older bottlings having a bit more depth and substance than the newer ones. Much of the flavours are still there, but it's slightly less sophisticated. 🥃

[@tom4711]

@@Gwhisky That is exactly my impression too. 🥃

[@sunryse111]

I agree with all you said, Geoff. Definitely a "gentleman's drink" - and - from memory - no longer as intense as it used to be. It's one I need to restock up on. 👍

[@Gwhisky]

Well if these rumoured price hikes are coming, perhaps better sooner than later. Cheers Victor! 🥃

[@jeffhildreth9244]

My daughter gave me a bottle of this for Christmas. To her Scotch is Scotch and since it was expensive , she thought it would be good and I would like it. I am not an ISLAY fan. I am reluctant to open it , dislike it and be tempted to toss it. I have had ISLAY Scotch that was expensive and so bad I wretched. One of them was an AA something something. Oh and anything from DIAGIO... never if I can help it.. Enjoyed the review.

[@snowcountry322]

Ardbeg Ugedail 9/10, Lagavulin16 7/10. Lagavulin is mild and elegant but tastes like ashtray as well.

[@Thewhiteranger6969]

Recently I have been in the market for Independent Bottlings of Single Malts I have noticed that you can't find any Lagavulins. Does anyone know why. Thanks...

[@Gwhisky]

As far as I know it's simply be a matter of them keeping almost all the distillate for their single malts.

[@Thewhiteranger6969]

@@Gwhisky thanks for the reply. That was my suspicion, coupled w/Diageo wanting to keep Lagavulin "pure"... for marketing reasons obviously. 🍻

[@rudranildhar527]

Happy New Year In Advance .... Cheers 🥃

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks you so much, Rudranil! Cheers to you! 🥃

[@sergiomontesdeoca5955]

I would ve never thought Laga 16 to be chilled filtered

[@Gwhisky]

Coloured and chill filtered, unfortunately.

[@sugarkitty4777]

Yes, Lagavulin was a little better 20 years ago. But the difference isn't as much as today's Talisker vs it 20 years ago. But both are still darn good bottles.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah strange I've only been at this hobby for 12, and in my mi.d the Laga has changed more. Different perspectives! Cheers! 🥃

[@Ironxsamurai]

Great review, you got a sub from me sir

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks so much. Love the name! 👍🥃

[@chefmarv6499]

"I don't have a study room...or a fireplace...But I have a damn good bottle of whisky"

[@jasoncoates1835]

On the subject of this being better back in the day... yes and no? I think the real answer is that batches are variable. I had some amazing pours in 2017-18 but the bottle I bought in 2018 was a massive disappointment. Flat, stale smoke, not complex. Put me off the expression for 5 years. I decided to give it another go this summer after finding some on the shelf for $82... so I picked up a 2023 bottling. This batch is *killer* even through my rose-tinted glasses. It has the depth of sherry and refined smoke I remember falling in love with in the first place. You forget it's 43%, which is saying something. I'm generally a believer in the idea that whisky was better in the past - not because "the past" necessarily, but because we're in a boom time right now and quality never ascends in boom times - but Lagavulin can still bring it when they get it right.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah even with modern bottles there are better and worse ones. Tough to say if it was better overall back then. Going off of memory is tricky (and unreliable), but it's also never been the most consistent whisky. 🥃

[@jasoncoates1835]

@@Gwhisky Nope, and that's the tricky thing with whisky in general. It's a batched product and single malts aren't generally released in batch sizes big enough to really iron out variance. They will be different, and it's hard to know in the moment whether you're seeing some kind of long-term trend or just that regular batch variation.

[@hanqb10]

I think the nostalgia blends with becoming more discerning. When I first got into whisky, Lagavulin was a “serious” dram - such a step up from glenfiddich or glenlivet 12 in complexity and richness. 15 years later my references are completely different. Now it competes in my mind with Laphroaig Lore, Port Charlotte 10, or Ardbeg Cory. Unless you have older bottlings to run a vertical flight, impossible to say if you changed or the whisky changed.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah. There's not doubt at all that my sensibilities and preferences have changed. But I suspect the whisky did, too. Memory is tricky of course, but I'd guess it's a bit of both. Nothing stays stagnant after all!

[@hanqb10]

@@Gwhisky Just revisited this tonight. No denying that it's delicious. Sweeter than I remember. Landing on it as the perfect whisky for experienced whisky drinkers in a social setting: interesting enough to appreciate, but round enough to not distract from a conversation. No denying that its value for the money is increasing over the last couple of years as well. Name me one 15-18 year old Islay with this much balance and complexity that can still be found for under $100 USD (with some searching around). Look at Ardbeg selling the 19 year Traigh Bhan for $399 USD.

[@Eli1993.]

In Iceland today the lagavulin 16 is 124.34 US dollars. Worth it?

[@Gwhisky]

Nah. Bit much.

[@Eli1993.]

@@Gwhisky thank you

[@jeremiahsuryanto4342]

Hi Geoff, I've been eyeing for this Lagavulin 16 for quite some time and couldn't decide, mainly because of the steep price point (especially here in my country), do you think it is worth it to buy this bottle for around 130 usd ? or should I just buy other bottles ?

[@Gwhisky]

Hi Jeremiah. I did this review before the price went up in my market. I wouldn't recommend it as highly anymore. Imo USD $130 is too steep. Cheers.

[@jeremiahsuryanto4342]

@@Gwhisky Alright, thanks for the insight Geoff. Cheers mate!

[@lancealbon46]

For me personally, I would still pay US$ 130 for Lagavulin 16, but fortunately here in New Zealand I managed to find a bottle for US$ 96. I love this Whisky.

[@jeremiahsuryanto4342]

@@lancealbon46 Hi, thanks for the insight Lance, as a context I live in Indonesia, which is not too far off from NZ (location-wise), but the whisky price is somehow absurd in here. For example, Ardbeg Uigeadail costs staggering 250 usd, while better known Islay here, such as Laphroaig 10 costs around 80 usd, which is still a jump in price. I'll probably start saving some money to buy these bottles then 🤣

[@lancealbon46]

@@jeremiahsuryanto4342 … wow! Those are crazy high prices! You can’t go wrong settling for Laphroaig 10 then 🥃😁👍🏼 cheers mate!

[@BanjoSick]

Himalayan rock salt made my eyes roll right up to my brain.

[@Gwhisky]

Plenty of snooty tasting notes across this channel. You've only scratched the surface. 😉

[@BanjoSick]

@@Gwhisky Good you you. If it works, it works. Cheers!

[@sidberns1373]

Kilchoman! not quite the age statement but the presentation makes a younger whiskey just as good if not better…

[@Gwhisky]

Better imo. 🥃

[@MasterMote]

Its a legend but I'll be honest, i start every laga16 not loving it, and after I've finished half of it over quite some time and i come back to the last half then i find its so amazing, and I can't explain why. That last half is superb, but the first half is meh, am i the only one?

[@revolvermaster4939]

It took me a while to like it, but I think it’s because I had been a Laphroaig nut for 40 years before I tried it.

[@stromghouls]

it was my first whisky. but yes my journey has taken me to other places. nowadays i can get a heavily peated north star inchfad 14 years old non chill filtered, non colored at 49% abv for the same amount of money. knowing what i know today, i would not recommend this even to a beginner. much better stuff can be found.

[@ADSCP]

Ever had the 8?

[@Gwhisky]

I have. Good stuff.

[@revolvermaster4939]

I found some bottles for under $100, I like it but not for more than $100.

[@Gwhisky]

Agree.

[@Dmitriy_Izhevsk]

👍🏻

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

I'm off Diageo products and have no plans to buy them again; their corporate philanthropy decisions are inconsistent with my values, and life is too short to do business with companies actively working to undermine things you hold dear, so...That being said, Lagavulin 16 was a favorite of mine, and despite it's ridiculous price of something like $150, the new release of Lagavulin 12 Cask Strength looks to be something special.

[@Gwhisky]

$150? Damn that's way too much! Yeah I wouldn't dish that much out for this stuff either!

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

@@Gwhisky Not too long ago you could find Lagavulin 16 for about $70, and despite being a Low Integrity Malt, and occasionally inconsistent, in the glass it usually drank beautifully. However, today we have lots of choices, right? To be honest just about anything from Ardbeg, Port Charlotte, Ledaig, or Kilchoman drink as well or better than Lagavulin IMHO ✌️

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

@@Gwhisky To be clear, I saw the new Lagavulin 12 CS for $150, not the 16.

[@Gwhisky]

@@MrChristopherMolloy Hah I just read it again. OK you meant the 12, that makes a lot more sense. But still, yeah the price of the 16 getting too high in a lot of markets nowadays. If it keeps going up I'll be off the it myself!

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

@@Gwhisky Yeah, it's not uncommon to see the 16 for $90+ in NYC these days; at that price it's a solid pass! I can actually get Ledaig 18 for $90! It's not for the uninitiated, but I think it's massively complex & interesting.

[@djkamy]

8:12 Laphroaig 16 ?

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah it's a pretty recent release. Not available everywhere yet.

[@djkamy]

@@Gwhisky cool, good to know... thanks !

[@sambrewster8556]

A whisky I've bought and enjoyed down the years, but would always opt for the 8 year old in preference to the 16 these days. Comparing the two side by side gives a great illustration of how better presentation makes a difference. Despite its extra age the 16 feels thin and lacking on the finish compared to the younger brother.

[@Gwhisky]

I find it full flavoured but the body is too light. A lot of wasted potential here...

[@joeynickles7962]

The distillate is special. Diageo is the exact opposite of special.

[@inspector_7152]

My love with Lagavulin has ended. It doubled in price over 2-3 years. Outrageous. For the money you pay for a 16 YO nowadays you can buy many far more nicer Scotch whiskies. Period.

[@Gwhisky]

Not gonna defend it. Love the whisky but the price is absurd these days. Agree. 🥃

[@jeffersondelrosario8345]

autumn leaves? 😂

[@Gwhisky]

My favourite snack.

[@justinmaizeblue]

Why don’t you hit up some straight forward blends, like a JW black. Throw in a bourbon or something for another perspective? Sorry if I missed those and you’ve done them.

[@bzzz1800]

Fancy bourbons might be ok but who the hell needs repulsive cocktail fillers like jw blends? Not for here.

[@Gwhisky]

I'll be touching on more non-scotch stuff as time goes on. The thing is I review what I buy, and I buy scotch first and foremost. I'll admit I'm not the biggest bourbon fan. I've got a top 5 Canadian whisky list coming out in Jan, and I have reviewed a few Irish, Taiwanese, and Indian whiskies.

[@nitroxhockey7786]

@@Gwhisky Interesting, looking forward all of these! Happy New Year from HK!

[@Gwhisky]

@@nitroxhockey7786 Happy New Year to you too!

[@edwardspearing5148]

Diageo... Its not broken... So we'll fix it..

[@Gwhisky]

😂😂😂

[@kylerobinson8913]

...and burnt rubber.

[@bryanhumphrey4072]

Could it be that the whisky curmudgeons remember the whisky as tasting better because their tastebuds are not as good as they once were? As we age our eyesight, hearing, senses of smell etcetera also aren't what they used to be.

[@Gwhisky]

Good point! That's something very few people touch on! Very likely a factor. Cheers!

[@whacheyayo]

How the fcuk you nose himalayan salt dude???

[@cecilrobbins5182]

I'm in Michigan and Lagavulin 16 is $99.99. that is more than Laphroaig 10 at 59.99, Lagavulin 8yr 79.99(48%, NCF,NC) 11yr at 97.99(46%), Ardbeg 10yr 57.99(46%,NCF,NC), Port Charlotte 10yr 64.99(50%,NCF,NC) that's just the aged Islay whiskies there's a whole world of NAS Great Islay scotches that are far superior to Lagavulin 16 43%, chillfiltered and color added. It's about time someone tells the truth, the Laga 16's ship has sailed! It is Way, Way over priced and over praised for the dinosaur it is. If folks want to enter Islay tell them one of the above choices that are unadulterated! There's plenty to choose from as I've demonstrated. So, I dislike your review. You politely mentioned the failings and then still recommend they buy it? The money is all that matters. Tell them to go elsewhere. Sorry, for my rant but we have better gateways to scotch and Islay than the watered down, low ABV, chillfiltered scotches of the past. Respected reviewers like you should know it. And be willing to say it. The blends are going, soon enough the low ABV, chillfiltered "classics" will follow.

[@Gwhisky]

1. I do recommend most high quality craft presented Islays over this. That's reflected in the score. 2. “The money is all that matters.” This costs the equivalent of USD $72 here. And even then, I said it's barely worth it. Markets are different and not everyone lives in Michigan USA. 3. Maybe I like this more than you? Opinions and all...