Editor’s Note: This whisk(e)y was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
When it comes to celebrity collaboration in the wonderful world of spirits, it doesn’t get more on brand than Nick Offerman’s partnership with Lagavulin on the third in the Offerman Edition limited series. This Scotch whisky lends itself perfectly to Offerman’s well known Parks and Recreation character, the masculine-obsessed Ron Swanson, who likely brushed his teeth with a combination of cigar smoke and deer jerky. And those flavors are what come through in the initial tasting of Lagavulin Offerman Edition Charred Oak Cask 11 Years, offering a peaty Scotch with a ton of personality.
Believed to be one of the oldest distilleries on Islay, Lagavulin Distillery first paired with Offerman in 2019 to produce his own personalized release. The actor has credited Lagavulin as the first Scotch he ever imbibed, and the passion derived from that experience has encouraged Offerman to spread the word far and wide, participating in digital marketing including the popular Yule Log campaign even before his name was officially attached to the brand.
For this latest release, Offerman has embarked on a new, dangerous Tale of Whisky, the high adventure digital campaign introducing this smoky creation.
Along with the hearty Scotch and the handsome bottle, the presence of such a charming spokesman as Offerman creates more than a brand, but an experience that one can enjoy as they hear Ron Swanson’s voice in their ear, quoting Offerman’s label statement – “I have travelled the world and sampled many attempts at pleasing nectars, but it is solely this distillation of Islay; a tiny charismatic Scottish Isle, that has claimed my palate. YEA, AND MY HEART INTO THE BARGAIN.”
While it may be tempting to brush off Lagavulin Offerman Edition Charred Oak Cask 11 Years as yet another celebrity endorsement, it’s clear that Offerman loves Scotch, and this collaboration with Lagavulin distillery manager Colin Gordon continues to be a love letter from one man to his favorite spirit.
Tasting Notes: Lagavulin Offerman Edition Charred Oak Cask 11 Years
Vital Stats: Aged 11 years “in American and European oak casks that are shaved down then heavily re-charred.” 46% ABV/750 ml. SRP around $80.
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Appearance: The color of golden oak with medium legs.
Nose: This whisky has strong leather notes, wood chip and campfire smoke, along with a meatiness and slight sweet of golden raisin.
Palate: Sweet on the front, there is a mellow burn that accompanies the heavy but pleasant smoke. Bitter notes of coffee and dark chocolate work well with the long, charcoal finish, and there are hints of marshmallow and red berries.