Ardbeg Almost There

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 64 by Dave Broom and Arthur Motley.

Whisky Magazine is the perfect complement to the dram in your glass. Every issue brings you fascinating articles on the art, science and romance of the 'water of life', plus page after page of tasting notes.

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Tasting Notes

Dave Broom Nose Smoky with seaweed and burned wood. Slightly vegetal/eucalypt with a hint of firelighter. Palate Immediate hit of smoke, cubeb berries but then a silky sweet mid-palate with touches of citrus. Then the smoke returns. Finish Salty and a little lean. Comment This is seamless stuff and despite the smokiness is unshowy. Only 9 Years Old? Great things are on their way.

Arthur Motley Nose Woodsmoke, raisiny fudge and burning field stubble. Smoked almonds. Palate A real witches’ cauldron. The smokiness is very dense. With time green apple, lime and Werther’s Original caramels come through. Finish Fading smoke and some pepper, but not as intense and lasting as I’d expected. Comment A breathless, smoky charge with great clarity of flavour.