DIAGEO SPECIAL RELEASES 2024
LIMITED EDITION LAGAVULIN, OBAN, & TALISKER
SCOTLAND
Why Buy: Diageo's annual Special Release is a whisky lover's dream come true. This year, we're thrilled to bring you three extraordinary bottles from this coveted collection: a Lagavulin 12 Year Old, an Oban 10 Year Old, and a Talisker 8 Year Old. Household names all, and these particular expressions also happen to be some of the most potent (115, 116, and 117 proof, respectively) and distinctive these legendary distilleries have ever produced. Each bottle captures the essence of its coastal origins, offering a rare glimpse into the elemental character of these iconic malts.
Our Tasting Notes:
* The Lagavulin 12 Year Old "Fireside Tales" is a revelation as glowing embers tame bold smoke. It opens with a nose that, for a Lagavulin, is surprisingly gentle — think: smoldering beach bonfires and healing balms. The palate, however, is where this whisky truly comes into focus. It's a rollercoaster of flavors: sweet toffee and vanilla embrace in coconut notes, unfurling spicier side to the mighty King of Islay. The finish is long, warming, and unmistakably Lagavulin.
This is perfect for anyone that loves a spicier whisk(e)y or mezcal. Definitely for ‘those in the know’ and one to show off on the bar!
* Oban's 10 Year Old "Coastal Orchard" is a sensory journey to the West Highlands where aromatic blooms of spiced apple meet sea-salted vanilla. The nose is a wonderful mix of sea spray and orchard fruits, with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon in the background. On the palate, it's creamy and full-bodied, with flavors of baked apples, vanilla, and a whisper of salt. The Oloroso sherry finish adds depth and complexity, making each sip different and distinct.
Oban is perfectly poised for anyone looking to explore the world of scotch but wants something a little bit special…
* The Talisker 8 Year Old "Tidal Churn" is a force of nature in a glass as waves of orchard fruits are lightly toasted. The nose is fresh and maritime, with subtle earthy undertones. On the palate, the ride begins. It starts sweet, quickly turns salty, then explodes with peppery spice. The unique stone-spinning process has amplified Talisker's inherent coastal character, resulting in a whisky that's both familiar and excitingly new.
Talisker 8 Year Old is for the seasoned aficionado; it’s proudly punchy!
The Story: Launched in 2001, Diageo's Special Release series has become a highlight of the whisky calendar. It's a showcase of the company's vast reserves—the largest collection of maturing Scotch whisky in the world. These limited annual releases feature unusual expressions from well-known distilleries, giving whisky makers the freedom to experiment and innovate. Lagavulin, perched on the southern coast of Islay, has been producing iconic peated whiskies since 1816. Its location, heritage and connection to the land ensures every drop reflects the time-honored flavors of Islay. Oban, nestled between the West Highlands and the Islands, is one of Scotland's oldest and smallest distilleries. Founded in 1794, it predates the town that grew up around it. Its unique location results in a whisky that bridges the gap between the lighter Lowland style and the more robust Island malts. Talisker, that stalwart of the Isle of Skye, has been crafting its distinctive pepper-and-smoke profile since 1830. Its wild, storm-lashed location is reflected in every bottle, making it a favorite among those who love whiskies that are bold and full of character.
The Specs: Each of these whiskies showcases innovative maturation techniques. The Lagavulin 12 Year Old is matured in a combination of first-fill ex-bourbon and refill casks, resulting in its unique balance of sweetness and smoke. The Oban 10 Year Old sees an interesting twist in its maturation. After initial aging in refill casks, it's finished in newly charred American oak barrels seasoned with Oloroso sherry. This process imparts additional layers of flavor and complexity. The Talisker 8 Year Old undergoes perhaps the most unique process. The casks are "stone-spun” — a technique whereby the original char layers are polished away by rocks and water, then lightly re-toasted, which allows an array of flavors to emerge.
ABV: Lagavulin 12 YO, 57.4% (114.8 proof); Oban 10 YO, 58.0% (116 proof); Talisker 8 YO, 58.7% (117.4 proof).
Fun Fact: The stone-spinning process used for the Talisker 8 Year Old? It’s a nod to the distillery's rugged coastal location. The technique is inspired by the way rocks are shaped and polished by the relentless and ceaseless pounding of the surf — a process that's occurring daily on the shores near the distillery. These editions have the 2024 year mark; perfect to gift or to celebrate big milestones!
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured – your single malts will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2024 (Dec 21, 2024 - Mar 20, 2025). All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, MI, MN, MO, NC, NM, NV, NY, TN, VA, WA, & WI. This offer will expire on Sunday, October 13, 2024.
