Ardbeg Corryvreckan

Thanks to MMMNRice for this sample! The nose immediately draws me in with meaty peat smoke, orange, a bit of gravel or earth, hints of brine, and musk.  This scotch features a rich smoke and citrus combination, with the citrus leaning toward the orange side, along with a strong dash of salt, leather, and herbal grassiness.  This scotch is like Laphroaig 18, but a Laphroaig 18 that's done some manual labor and put on some muscle.  The finish is thick smoke, like charcoal from the grill, intense spice, and orange rind.  Its only flaw is that it is almost too rugged, at 57%, with a good amount of heat in the palate and especially the finish.  It's the best of the three standard Ardbeg expressions.

Bought this based on other reviews here and it is now a solid favorite. Expensive at $90, but I'm planning on buying a couple bottles to store in case they stop making it. This dram is like a bomb for your taste buds. A crescendo for a good Islay flight. Such a balance of sweet, peat and heat, my favorite combination.