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Everything you need to know about Lagavulin Distillery
Most popular bottles from the distillery
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Lagavulin Islay Malt Whisky Distillers Edition 2022£89.99 Inc VAT -
Lagavulin Islay Malt Whisky 1988 Distillers Edition lgv.4/492£829.99 Inc VAT -
Lagavulin 16 Year Old Islay Whisky Feis Ile 2017£389.99 Inc VAT
A brief History
Lagavulin, Islay Region, Scotland. Founded in 1816
Smoke, Sea, and Serious Flavour
If you've ever had a whisky that felt like a campfire by the sea, chances are it was Lagavulin. Tucked along the southern coast of Islay, this distillery is one of the island’s most legendary names — and it wears its smoke like a badge of honour. Founded officially in 1816, Lagavulin (pronounced Lagga-voolin) was built on a site where illicit distilling had already been bubbling away for years.
The character of Lagavulin is shaped by slow distillation, peat-heavy malt, and its coastal setting. The whisky is famously rich, smoky, and intense — the kind that stays with you long after the last sip. It's not shy. It’s also a key player in Scotland's whisky history, once a core component in the White Horse blend and now one of Diageo’s prized "Classic Malts."
Whether you're new to peated whisky or you’ve already converted to the smoky side, Lagavulin is one of those must-try names that really defines what Islay whisky is all about.
Taste Profile
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Peaty / Smokey |
Briny / Maritime | Rich / Chocolatey |
Lagavulin is renowned for its powerful, smoky single malts. It brings together dense peat, briny sea air, and a touch of sweetness that adds complexity rather than softening the boldness.
Lagavulin is known for its deeply smoky, complex single malts that balance maritime sharpness with rich, warming notes. Key flavour characteristics include:
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Intense peat smoke
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Sea spray and iodine
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Dried fruit and roasted cocoa
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A long, smoky-sweet finish
Top 4 Flavour Profile Ingredients
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Peat Smoke |
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Brine / Sea Salt |
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Dark Chocolate / Cocoa |
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Dried Fruits (Raisins, Figs, Dates) |
Popular Lagavulin Bottlings
| Expression | ABV / Age | Flavour Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lagavulin 16 Year Old | 43% | Iconic — rich smoke, seaweed, fig, pepper, and lingering depth |
| Lagavulin 8 Year Old | 43% | Bright peat, citrus zest, younger and more energetic |
| Lagavulin 12 Year Old | Cask Strength | Big and punchy — earthy peat, charred oak, white pepper |
| Distillers Edition | PX Sherry Finish | Sweet smoke, raisins, chocolate, and silky spice |
This is one of those rare distilleries where even the entry-level dram is considered a classic.
Game of Thrones Whisky Lagavulin 9 Year Old House Lannister
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The Distillery
Lagavulin Distillery
Lagavulin, Isle of Islay PA42 7DZ
 Open in maps |
 Lagavulin Distillery |
 01496 302749 |
Visitor Information
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Address: Lagavulin Distillery, Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, PA42 7DZ, Scotland
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Telephone: 01496 302749
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Opening Times:
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March to November: Daily, 10:00 – 17:00
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December to February: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 – 16:00
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The visitor centre is right by the sea, complete with guided tours, whisky tastings, and a chance to watch the stills do their slow, smoky magic. Don’t forget to try a dram with a view of the bay — it’s worth the journey alone.
Ownership and History
Current Owner:
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Diageo
Timeline of Ownership and Milestones:
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1816: Founded by John Johnston and Archibald Campbell
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1837: Two neighbouring distilleries merged under one name — Lagavulin
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1860s: John Logan Mackie and his nephew Peter Mackie made Lagavulin a household name
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Late 1800s: Became a major component in the White Horse blend
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1988: Chosen as one of the Classic Malts
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1997–Present: Owned and operated by Diageo
Fun fact: For much of the 20th century, a small distillery called Malt Mill operated right next to Lagavulin. Though now long gone, it added a layer of legend to the place — one that's still whispered about by whisky fans.
Distillery Facts
Overview & History
Lagavulin Distillery is located on the south coast of Islay, near the village of the same name, and was established in 1816.
It is one of the most recognisable distilleries on the island and forms part of Diageo’s portfolio. Historically, Lagavulin has been closely associated with blending (particularly White Horse) but is now best known for its single malt releases.
The distillery sits between Laphroaig Distillery and Ardbeg Distillery, forming part of Islay’s most famous whisky-producing coastline.
Production
- Spirit Type: Single malt Scotch whisky
- Region: Islay
- Peat Level: Heavily peated
- Distillation: Slow distillation in pear-shaped copper pot stills
- Cask Policy: Primarily ex-bourbon with some sherry cask influence
Lagavulin is known for its slow distillation process, which contributes to its rich, layered character.
Whisky Style
Lagavulin whisky typically shows:
- Deep peat smoke
- Maritime salinity
- Dried fruit sweetness
- Iodine and medicinal notes
- Long, smoky finish
Compared with other Islay malts, Lagavulin is often described as rich, dense, and rounded, rather than sharp or aggressive.
Key Expressions
- Lagavulin 16 Year Old – Core flagship expression
- Lagavulin 8 Year Old – Lighter, more youthful style
- Lagavulin Distillers Edition – Double matured (often in sherry casks)
- Limited special releases and older expressions
The 16 Year Old is widely considered the benchmark for the distillery’s style.
Significance
Lagavulin is one of the defining distilleries of Islay whisky, representing a classic heavily peated style.
Its combination of smoke, sweetness, and depth has made it a reference point for peated Scotch and a staple in the global single malt market.
Lagavulin Whisky to Buy
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Lagavulin 16 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (No Box)Special Price £70.98 Regular Price £179.99 Inc VATSaving £109.01
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