Storytelling is integrated into each release of Offerman Lagavulin, such as the nautical map and the loud, incredibly fun graphics that adorn the Rum Cask brand bottle and display box.
“We just come up with the story and the liquid and the smell, it’s all part of the story,” he said. “It’s really fun…as a storyteller, to be creative.”
Offerman has proven deep research into the world of Scotch working with Lagavulin for more than a decade, calling it an evolving experience of the genre.
Another Ron Swanson-approved feature of trying wonderful Scotch in all its nuances? Sorting expert pairs next to each drum. In this example, the lemon meringue pie groups in a lovely fashion alongside the Rum Cask finish, Offerman said.
“We come up with this liquid, and one of the fun things we can do is see the notes coming out,” he said. Smoked meats also go well with a variety of Lagavulin releases (Ron Swanson is somewhere nodding in agreement).
When sipping his favorite Scotch, Offerman keeps things simple. He takes his Scotch very well, occasionally using a water dropper to open the liquid when serving whiskey to guests.
And how about a chance to relax and reflect, drama in hand? It’s helped Offerman achieve some important insights throughout the years, whether it’s through his woodworking, writing, acting, or Scotch tasting.
“In all these situations, what I’ve learned is that, at least for me…I’m not a smart person of any kind. The success I get, if I’m lucky enough to get it, has to do with putting my shoulder down and having a good work ethic,” he said. “Most of the things I do on my own come from the culture of high-quality teachers I’ve had in my life, be it in theater school or my woodworking teachers.I can take their culture and… their outdated techniques and say, ‘Okay, how can I apply this to my work?’” he reflected.
It’s the combination of both theory and imagination that Offerman also sees reflected in every Lagavulin brew.
“The people of Lagavulin are different, they watch them keep their scrutiny and watchfulness. They built this product and they have … different shoots, different efforts for different tastes and different varieties,” he said, adding that he likes to watch “the dedication they keep, and this kind of sharpness with which they sharpen their tools.”
Offerman boldly (and perhaps accurately, in some cases) declares that “for my money, it’s the best single malt Scotch I’ve ever come across.”
As impressive as the distillery’s commitment to innovation, which is demonstrated in some way by the pursuit of Offerman outside of Scotch, he said of working with the Islay producer.
“I think it’s because I bring authenticity, because I actually work with my hands,” she said.
As for what’s next for Offerman’s work with Lagavulin, the creative gears are now turning for another Offerman Lagavulin release, right through Offerman’s story on the label and packaging.
“Let’s think outside the box, as it were, and try to have a little more fun with it, and be more creative. So, I’m very grateful that they went there with me,” he said before signing a final thank you: “At 55 years old, I’m very grateful that my knees still work.”