Ardbeg Dark Cove (2016 Committee Release)

"""** Disclaimer: This review is what I would consider a “Quick Hit”- meaning I won’t have my usual in-depth notes that I usually like to take. The reason: this sample was poured at Whiskyfest DC on 4/17/18. All of these reviews will not be scored and I am actively looking to try them again at some point to do them more justice. I think I can mark this one down as one of the more pleasant surprises of the festival, even though my palate was surely fried because this was sampled during the seminar at the very end of the night. Whereas I thought the regular Dark Cove was not different enough that a typical Ardbeg 10 to warrant a separate release- the Committee Edition was a vast improvement over what I remember about the regular DC. The sherry notes seemed well pronounced, tempered well with typical Ardbeg smoke, and the extra strength amplified all the aromas and flavors from the nose to the long finish. I could see giving this one 4.5 stars, easily. It’s a bit late in the game to search for a bottle, but if I come across one it would be hard not to bite if the price was reasonable. Cheers.

NOSE: Sweet smoky baked beans Smoked ham hock Strawberry jam Smoked paprika Salty sea air & crushed seashells PALATE: Strangely refreshing Juicy grilled nectarine Dark chocolate FINISH: Roasted vegetables with salt & pepper Luxurious peat Slight medicinal hint Thanks to Jason Wu (AKA Dreaming of Islay) for the generous sample! Dry glass: dark chocolate ganache & salted caramel.