Black Friday isn’t just about making massive tech savings, but there are deals to be had across the board. Case in point: the Lagavulin 16 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, which is currently reduced from £83 down to £59.99 at Amazon.
This bestselling and highly-regarded single malt is the perfect premium prize for a loved one this Christmas, and at this price it’s also ideal for restocking a flagging booze cabinet. The 8 Year Old is also discounted to £45.71 from £52.50, but for the added richness and depth we’d recommend springing for the 16. Known as the King of Islay, Lagavulin is renowned for its aromatic, intense, peaty flavour profile tempered by sweet and salty notes.
Smoke, vanilla and dates linger on the tongue and at the back of the throat, with a smooth finish rendered by its ageing in oak casks. If you’re not convinced, note that it’s a multi-award winner too, winning Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition three years in a row.
At Amazon it’s got a 4.8 out of 5 stars average from 13,262 ratings. “Great whisky, amazing aromas of sherry, woodsmoke, rich caramel and vanilla,” said a five-star review. “Nice sherry richness on the palate with a sophisticated and not too overbearing smokiness, not too long a finish but a great dram none the less.”
“Strong peaty flavours and scent,” said another happy customer. “Smooth whisky and deserves the ratings it consistently achieves.”
Another added: “I urge you to try this as a special treat to yourself. This 16 year old is so smooth, with a gorgeous aroma and oozes quality. After just two wee drams, this has become my favourite.”
As ever when it comes to palates, everyone is different. “It is, as the descriptions state, intensely smoky — for me, overpoweringly so. I have tried it alongside various food and flavour groups, drank it neat, with ice, and with with water; I just cannot find the right balance for this whisky,” said one review. Another added: “Lacking both substance and flavour overall. The peat and smoke was brash, short lived and unsatisfying and it tasted watery.”
If you’re keen to swoop for something less expensive, the Burnt Ends Blended Whisky at Debenhams is well worth a try at £29.93. Jack Daniels’ Gentleman Jack is also worth considering for just £20 at Asda, down from £33.
At less than £60, the Lagavulin 16 Year Old is nevertheless an easy recommendation at a bargain price.
