Lagg Small Batch Ex Palo Cortado finish 2025, 56.2 %, WB279436

Hearing the words 'Palo Cortado' gives me goosebumps. According to the Wikipedia article, Palo Cortado is a rare variety of sherry that is initially aged under flor to become a fino or an amontillado. However, it then loses its veil of flor and begins ageing oxidatively, like an oloroso. The result is a wine that combines the richness of an Oloroso with the crispness of an Amontillado. This kind of sherry is extremely tasty yet very complex. Does this whisky inherit those features? No.

Nose (2h): Medium-rare steak, campfire, BBQ and campfire bread – that dough you stick on a stick and grill. There are also some floral fragrances, such as roses. Clove and cinnamon can also be detected. There's nothing Palo Cortadish yet, just dates and a hint of plum jam. The cigar smoke lingers for a while, mixing with the roastiness.

Palate: It begins with a burning sensation and a sharp arrival, yet it is thin. It lacks aroma and has a little peatiness and oiliness, as well as a aromaless wateryness. There are hints of sage, almonds and maybe other nuts, as well as nutmeg, cinnamon and clove. A hint of Christmasness.

Finish: Extremely short. I could stop here. But let's double-check. Interestingly, despite the high ABV, there is no trace of it in the aftertaste.

To be honest, I have had better Laggs, but I am not giving up on them and am willing to try new releases. As a great man once said: 'Life is short, kiss slowly, laugh insanely, love truly and forgive quickly.'

– Paulo Coelho.

84/83/80