Recently I was coming back from a trip to the U.K. and had a little time to kill in Heathrow. So, naturally, I stopped by the World of Whiskey. It was about 10:00 in the morning and time for a little taste-testing.

For some years now, 16-year-old Lagavulin has been a steady friend. On cold, winter nights, there is nothing like its rich, smokey flavors to warm the insides. It’s the internal equivalent of lamb’s wool slippers or an old, worn, woollen blanket. There are other scotches, but this one has embracing familiarity.

So, at Heathrow I was eager to try the 1990 Distiller’s Edition. Once I did, I purchased a bottle immediately, price be damned. Now I wish I had purchased two.

This is a truly special single-malt scotch whiskey. Its color is a beautiful coppery bronze, and its round, full, smokey flavors are deeply satisfying. It’s a whiskey that makes you want to put your feet up.

At the time I made the purchase, the sales clerk said it could not be obtained in the United States. I am inclined to believe this is mostly true, although I did find it for sale on eBay for $149 per bottle–significantly more than I paid. I also understand the 1991 Distiller’s Edition now can be purchased from some high-end wine and liquor stores in the U.S.

Keep your eye out for this whiskey. If you see it, buy it. My birthday is in May.