70cl * 46% ABV * Scotland
Distilled on the remote Scottish island of Islay for more than 200 years, Ardbeg is revered around the globe as among the peatiest and smokiest, yet most complex, of all the Islay single malt whiskies. Established in 1815, Ardbeg prides itself on being The Ultimate Islay Malt Whisky. And while it is one of the smokiest Islay whiskies, Ardbeg is also renowned for its delicious sweetness, a phenomenon that has affectionately become known as ‘the peaty paradox’.
This limited edition, Ardbeg Spectacular, has been matured in rare port wine casks and ex-bourbon casks, which has imparted a mesmerising array of notes. Fragrant lavender, vetiver and incense candles tumble into rich almond nuttiness. A splash of water opens up the bouquet, revealing touches of woodsmoke, damp peat moss, a hint of menthol and antique leather. The mouthfeel is salty, but viscous at the same time, and leads in to a burst of huge, salty, savoury, smoky flavours- eucalyptus oil, salted caramel toffee, smoked pecan nuts. There is also a background sweetness, like a sweet pear crumble and salted caramel fudge.