Ardbeg BizarreBQ

Finally, a special release Ardbeg that’s actually good, and not just a money grab scheme backed by hype and marketing bullshit. I had a small pour last week at the hotel I was staying in London, but soon after I picked up a bottle for £65. That is not bad for a special release Ardbeg. Nose is ash, dark chocolate, strawberries. Palette to me is where it shines…sticky, smoky, sweet. Milk chocolate, ashy wood, berries, and meaty. If you find this anywhere around USD 75-90, buy. You’ll appreciate it especially if you’re a fan of Uigi. Between Uigi and this, I’d give this an edge. It’s funny how the two unheralded Ardbegs this year were really good…the SmokeTrails ( about £75) and this one. Lesson to take away…when Ardbeg makes 0 to minimal effort in marketing bullshit, buy. If they make a huge bullshit effort, stay away.

Bought at Ardbeg distillery on Islay. I had no interest in BBQ because it sounded unpleasant tbh, but our guide gave me a taste of it and Heavy Vapours side by side. HV was good, BBQ was fantastic. Rich, meaty, smoky, sweet … it echoes a great grilled steak but still retains the character of an Ardbeg Scotch. I see this making next winter much more enjoyable.