Lagavulin Aged 9 Years, 46% ABV, House Lannister Edition

olor a light amber.

Nose: being 2 feet upwind from a damp wood campfire. Lots of rich smoke, but not overwhelming. Once you get past the abundant smoke, there is a layer of allspice and nutmeg. I also pick up the classic wood aroma of a refill sherry butt.

The mouthfeel is relatively light, with a gentle oiliness that takes you into a sweet and smokey palate that is pure joy for anyone who appreciates a peated Islay whisky. I can’t believe I’m writing this, but if Doritos sweet and smoky flavor was to be eaten with barbecue flavor smoked almonds and magically was to become a whisky, this would be it. It’s not overly sweet, but the sweetness is almost a mix of fresh Mandarin oranges and golden raisins. The savory nature of this whisky kicks in with a gentle minerality and a dusting of cocoa powder, subtly asserting European red oak.

The finish is moderately long, with the sweetness dissipating before the smokiness with subtle oak tannin enduring.

This Lagavulin expression put out for the Game of Thrones Collection is very nice. No, it isn’t the 12 or the 16, but it has enough complexity to be intriguing while being remarkably smooth and easy drinking. I give credit to Diageo for putting this whisky out at a reasonable price (I purchased my bottles at about $65 US) and at a solid 46% ABV. It is a high enough ABV that I have no urge to say the whisky needs to be at a higher ABV to be truly appreciated. It is just fine as it is. Enjoy it if you can still find it.

Slainte!