Ardbeg 17 Years Old

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 6 by Michael Jackson and Jim Murray.

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.

• Issue 6 online • Buy issue 6 (£5.95)
• Subscribe to Whisky Magazine (from £28.38)
• Preview current issue (72) • Preview other issues online

Tasting Notes

Michael Jackson Nose Assertive, briny, seaweedy, tar-like. Hint of sulphur. Palate Sweetish. Cereal grains, oil, gorse. Tightly combined flavours. Finish Oily. Lemon skins. Freshly-ground white pepper. Very appetising. Comment Not the most muscular Ardbeg, but still robust.

Jim Murray Nose A gentle, seductive sweet peat leads the way to a complex arrival of malt and vanilla. Palate Soft and languid at first, brilliant chewy malt and cocoa adds the depth and balance. Finish There is a delightful level of residual peat which ensures a long finish. Comment I admit to being a little biased here as I did have a hand in putting this whisky together. But I must say I adore it for its wonderful balance.