Ardbeg Drum

Review #079 Type: single malt scotch Proof: 46% Comments: NAS, matured in ex-bourbon casks, finished in ex-rum casks Tasted after: first up Appearance (no score): Golden straw color. Swirling reveals a thin line sticking to the side of the glass, legs are slow to form. Nose: 15/20 Molasses, caramel and grilled pineapple stand out. The smoke is here but it’s softer, more subtle than I’m accustomed to with Ardbeg, accompanied by a bit of lime zest a briny coastal breeze. Palate: 33/40 The classic Ardbeg ashy smoke flavor shines through here. It’s mingled with a plethora of fruits too. I can pick out bananas and pineapple but it tastes like there’s more, a hint of coconut too maybe. Brown sugar and molasses add to the sweetness. None of its punchy though, all these flavors are subtle and blend into something enjoyable, just not great or wow-worthy. Finish: 30/40 Medium-long finish. Sooty smoke throughout, mingling with burnt bacon and black pepper. It’s fairly consistent throughout, but ends on a softer note with a hint of vanilla. No noticeable rum cask influence here. With Water: A couple drops of water brings out a little vanilla on the nose and banana on the finish. Very minor changes, almost imperceptible. Total: 78/100 Final thoughts: I’m a big fan of peated whiskies, and of rum cask finishes. I had high hopes for this bottle. The kaleidoscope of flavors here is wonderful, but they’re all too subtle. Instead it’s another disappointing Ardbeg special release. It’s enjoyable to drink, but not worth the price tag, and leaves me wishing I’d been able to track down a committee release version instead. Price: $95 Would recommend: no Would buy: no Scoring Legend: 96-100: The perfect dram, absolutely exceptional, nectar of the gods, I will savor this bottle and make it last, 5 stars. 90-95: Near perfect, there is something truly special about this whisky, 4.75 stars. 85-89: Very good to amazing, almost the complete product, 4.5 stars. 80-84: Quite good, very enjoyable to drink, but doesn’t wow me, 4.25 stars. 75-79: Good, enjoyable but ultimately flawed, unlikely to purchase again, 4 stars. 70-74: A solid dram, but wouldn't go out of my way to get it, 3.75 stars. 55-69: Drinkable, 3.5-2.75 stars. Below 55: Suitable for cooking or direct contribution to the kitchen sink drain, 2.5 stars or less.