Notes from Ardbeg...On the nose, frighteningly intense aromas of soot and smoke lie in wait. Hints of aniseed and fragrant patchouli interlace with bold notes of quenched steel and saddle soap. With a drop of water, herbal top notes of briarwood, sage and pine wisp their way to the fore. Take a sip and experience lair upon lair of flavour. An oily mouthfeel grips the senses. Billowy clouds of sweet smoke and dragon charred oak permeate the palate, while grilled fare and black liquorice weave between notes of medicinal lozenge. A long and heroic finale, with a subtle tarry aftertaste. A finish that will drag on, well into its happily ever after.
Nose: A rich herbal aroma intertwined with bonfire smoke, evoking imagery of a seaside campfire. Notes of sea salt, struck matches, and subtle roasted orange peel linger behind the smoky veil.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied with a distinct oily texture. The high proof delivers a robust entry, blending sweet spices with peat, accented by a faint trace of sulfur.
Finish: Long and warming, with persistent ashy smoke and briny sea breeze. Hints of matchstick and a delicate iodine note round it out.
With Water: The aroma reveals pronounced wet sea salt and brine, with the smokiness softening into a rounder profile. Vanilla and oak emerge prominently. On the palate, the sweetness persists, with the peat becoming less intense, giving way to caramelized oak and fruit notes.
A gentle giant. This old grain whisky doesn’t try to shout, but it has plenty to say if you’re listening. A soft, elegant dram with aged sherry cask influence, balancing fruit, leather, oak, and just a whisper of tobacco. If you’re chasing subtle complexity over brute strength, this hits the mark.
A complex aged nose. Leather, dark chocolate mousse, dehydrated raspberries, canned peaches, and fermentation funk. Dark with tropical notes that bring it to life. To taste, mandarin syrup with spices; cloves and cinnamon. There’s an incense smokiness to the dram as well, bringing forward more rose and berry notes. A delightful example of an aged whisky, but potentially one that can be sourced for a slightly cheaper price. Claims of uniqueness can be a touch overrated, but still worth the experience.