Lagg Small Batch tries on a Manzanilla finish
The Isle of Arran now boasts two distilleries, and even though that is still miles and miles behind “whisky island” Islay, it is something to be proud of. The Lochranza single malt better known as Arran has a strong following. The “take no prisoners” peat violence that is produced at Lagg Distillery is something else. I am sure this fine output will soon get a batch of fans all their own. Speaking of batches…
Lagg Small Batch – Manzanilla Finish, bottled at 57,6 % abv
First things first: Just 2000 bottles were made of this Small Batch Lagg that was matured on bourbon casks before receiving a finish on first fill manzanilla casks. Peated at 50 PPM.
Upon Sipping: A briny and salty fortified wine in combination with a salty and briny single malt? I am up for it! It is indeed a very coastal experience in the glass, with lots of peat, sea salt and brine, farmland grasses and dark hay. Still, there is a distinct fruity smell too, maybe some plums and dades, but at this high abv it struggles. We will get back to that. Taking a sip from this light golden peated nectar is quite the delight. Lots of dark tones, peated dates indeed, dry barley husk, and even after swallowing the peat keeps on hammering away at me. What an intense experience. The whisky keeps providing tasting notes even though I swallowed well over 45 seconds ago. The red fruit hint I picked up on the nose kicks in while the peat smoke fades. What an experience.
With a drop of water, we manage to pull out (as we expected) the fruity side of this Lagg Small Batch Manzanilla. However, the balance is disturbed a bit. The maritime elements turn into a somewhat ashy smell now. This continues on the palate, where the beautiful peat influence is indeed now a tad more ashy. Not a bad development, but the undiluted Lagg offered a more complete picture. Batch strength is therefore recommended!
Word to the Wise: Quite a ride, this Lagg Small Batch. The Manzanilla adds something extra that at the same time does not feel out of place at all. Perfect companions. I like it even a little better than the Palo Cortado variant we tasted before.
Score: 87 points.