Ardbeg Twenty Something 23 Year

This sample was sent my way by @LeeEvolved. It was a rare treat based on cost and exclusivity, so many thanks to a gracious Lee for providing it. I decided to compare the Twenty Something against its brethren, Ardbeg Uigeadail. I’ve been savoring the Uigeadail for a while now and stuck between rating it 4 or 5 stars. Comparing the two for color, the 20 Something comes through a little darker reflecting the extra years of sherry cask influence, and since both are sherry conceived, smokiness was diminished in comparison to Ardbeg 10. In addition, the nose on the Uigeadail was clearly more robust than the 20 Something, calling to mind Jim Murray’s opinion that most whiskies will suffer from too much time in the barrel. Lastly, the comparison forced up some bourbon spiciness in the Uigeadail (allspice) I hadn’t noticed previously. Indulging the palate with these two whiskies is an act of total bliss. Similar notes of toasted barley, sherry, and vanilla dominate. Other common traits were subtle smoke, dried fruits, mocha, and a touch of sea salt. Again, the Uigeadail offered the additional hint of bourbon spiciness best described as banana nut bread. I must admit, a visit to the west cost of Scotland and the islands helped to enhance this tasting, but that’s what life is all about. We struggle to make a livable world for our families, so when you get a chance to enjoy life, whatever your dream, then make the most if it. And the most if it I did, as these whiskies brought me back to the windswept shores of Britain and Ireland and the peated campfires I’m sure once dotted their expanse. Of course, none of this would be possible without the efforts of people like my maternal uncle whom I’ve never met. He lost his young life in the battle of Anzio during WWII and is buried in Italy, a far cry from his home and family. So, it’s to him and others like him I dedicate this toast. They sacrificed their lives so that we could enjoys ours on this sacred Memorial Day weekend in our country. May 5 stars guide his path to heaven.