Single Malt Diageo Special Releases - The Ink of Legends 12YO (((Bottled 2023)))
⏳ Drinking Window
As a premium distilled spirit, this bottle will remain in pristine condition indefinitely if stored sealed and upright away from direct sunlight. Once opened, it is best enjoyed within 1 to 3 years to fully appreciate its complex cask-strength aromatics.
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Raw oysters on the half shell, mature blue cheese, dark chocolate
✨ Technical Specifications
Part of Diageo's highly anticipated 2023 'Spirited Xchange' Special Releases, 'The Ink of Legends' is a striking 12-year-old single malt that bridges the ancient traditions of Islay with the vibrant spirit of Mexico. This unique expression was finished in Don Julio Añejo tequila casks, a creative maturation choice that honors the art of tattooing and storytelling. The label art, inspired by ancient Mesoamerican style, reflects the fiery soul of the liquid within. On the palate, Lagavulin's legendary maritime smoke, medicinal peat, and coastal brine are beautifully interlaced with bright herbal notes, fresh agave sweetness, and a touch of citrus from the tequila cask influence, all delivered at a robust natural cask strength.
🍾 About the Producer
Perched on the rugged southern coastline of Islay, Lagavulin was officially established in 1816 by John Johnston, formalising centuries of illicit distilling along the sheltered cove beneath Dunyvaig Castle. Operating within an unforgiving maritime microclimate, the distillery draws peaty, mineral-rich process water from the upland Solum Lochs. Production relies on heavily peated barley and exceptionally deliberate methods: lengthy fermentations in larch washbacks precede distillation across four distinctive pear-shaped pot stills. Lagavulin famously executes one of the slowest double distillations in Scotland with wide middle cuts and high fill levels, maximizing copper interaction to sculpt a rich, oily spirit imbued with phenolic depth, smoked lapsang souchong, and iodine. Matured extensively in dunnage warehouses washed by sea spray, the resulting single malt balances pungent maritime brine and sweet oak tannins. Benchmark expressions include the iconic 16 Year Old, the cask-strength 12 Year Old annual releases, and sought-after mature parcels within Diageo's Prima & Ultima collection.