They say good things take time—Lagavulin 37 Year proves it. Aged for nearly four decades, this rare Islay whisky is more than just a drink; it's an experience worth slowing down for. In a world of fast pours and quicker toasts, hosting a slow-drinking session can turn a casual sip into a special ritual.

Let’s be honest—when a bottle costs more than your monthly rent, rushing through it feels almost criminal. Whether you're sharing it with close friends or enjoying it solo, savoring each drop of Lagavulin 37 Year is what makes the moment memorable.

Why Slow Drinking Matters

Think of it this way: would you speed-read a handwritten letter from an old friend? Probably not. The same goes for a pour this rare. Slow drinking lets the whisky unfold in layers—flavors, textures, warmth—all of it takes time to show up.

This isn’t about snobbery. It’s about presence. And with Lagavulin 37 Year, every second counts.

• Set the Scene: Keep It Cozy and Classy

You don’t need a leather armchair and a fireplace (although, that would be perfect). What you do need is a space that encourages conversation and comfort. Dim lighting, low music, and a few well-placed candles can go a long way.

Keep your guest list small. Four to six people is ideal. You want this to feel intimate, not like a cocktail party. Each guest should get enough time and attention from the whisky—and from you.

And yes, your glassware matters. A Glencairn or tulip glass works best. It helps capture the smoky, peaty aroma that makes Lagavulin 37 Year so iconic.

• Start with a Pause, Not a Pour

Don’t just pop the cork and start drinking. Let the moment breathe. Talk about the bottle. Where did you find it? Why did you save it for this night? This sets the tone for something meaningful, not just boozy.

Open the bottle and give it a few minutes to sit. Like a great story, it needs a proper introduction.

• The First Sip: No Rush, Just Focus

Pour a small amount. No mixers, no ice. Let your nose do the work first. With Lagavulin 37 Year, you'll pick up notes of oak, dried fruit, and smoke almost instantly. Give it time to open up.

Take your first sip slowly. Let it rest on your tongue. Notice the warmth, the taste, and how it lingers. Now talk about it. What did you feel? Was it spicy? Smooth? Let your guests share too. It’s not a tasting test—there are no wrong answers.

• Add Water—But Just a Drop

A few drops of water can change everything. It softens the alcohol and brings hidden notes to the surface. Try it with your second pour. You'll likely notice the flavor profile evolve—more wood, maybe some citrus, a bit of earthiness.

But don’t drown it. This is Lagavulin 37 Year, not soda.

• Pair It Right (But Keep It Light)

Don’t overload the table. Keep the snacks simple and flavor-friendly. Think smoked almonds, aged cheese, or dark chocolate. Strong flavors can fight the whisky instead of supporting it.

The goal here is harmony—not a battle of tastes. Let Lagavulin 37 Year be the star.

• Talk, Sip, Repeat

There’s no set script here. Let the evening flow as naturally as the whisky. Encourage people to share stories, memories, or just enjoy the silence in between. The point of a slow-drinking session is to stretch the experience.

This isn't your usual whisky night. It's a chance to really enjoy something rare—without distractions, without pressure.

• End on a Thoughtful Note

When the bottle goes back on the shelf, let the night end gently. No loud music, no sudden change in pace. Just a final sip and a smile.

And maybe, a shared plan to open the bottle again next year.

Why It’s Worth Doing

When the bottle goes back on the shelf, let the night end gently. No loud music, no sudden change in pace. Just a final sip and a smile.

And maybe, a shared plan to open the bottle again next year.

If you're lucky enough to have other rare pours on hand—like the 2017 William Larue Weller Bourbon—this could be the perfect moment to pour a final dram and compare. While very different in profile, both whiskies share one thing in common: they're meant to be savored, not rushed.

We speed through so much—texts, deadlines, even dinners. A night with Lagavulin 37 Year and maybe a touch of 2017 William Larue Weller is a quiet reminder to slow down. To enjoy what's in the glass. And to let great whisky do what it does best—bring people together.

Because some bottles aren’t just for drinking. They’re for remembering.