PBMichiganWolverine
Ardbeg 21 Year
Single Malt — Islay, Scotland
Reviewed
December 23, 2016 (edited December 21, 2017)
There are two samples I was really looking forward to this week, and this is one of them. ( other is the Cairdeas 2016). This is easily in the top three for me this year. As soon as the sample vial was opened, I was able to recognize the peat smoke. Not as wild and brute as the 10, but more refined. I also just received the Norlan glasses today, so wanted to give it a go using this sample as the inaugural launch. The liquid is light gold. And it has quite some legs, really viscous and oily. Just amazing. You have to let it sit a bit, like a good well mannered Pinot. Needs to breathe before you can really appreciate the aromas and taste. First taste is like nothing I've experienced...sort of like a cross between lime-mango-teriyaki, with a slight faint smoke. The smoke and peat gets stronger on the second sip. And really builds into this amazing tangy sweetness, but letting you know its DNA s still Ardbeg. The signature peat shows up. But it's not a brute. Rather you get layered texture: tangy-sweetness, followed by smoke and peat, followed by lime-lemon-mango, then finished with an almost a rye like spice, but not the same bite. Gentler, and smooth...my god it's smooth. This is a rare treat---thank you Lee for this experience!!!!!! Just amazing. In my mind, there are maybe 5-6 top whiskies I've had---in no particular order: a Brora 30, Rosebank 25, Macallan Fine Oak 15, Karuizawa, HW Midwinter, and now---this. Thanks to Lee for an amazing way to start the holiday season...
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lee---thanks again for this, was more of an experience than just a taste. Really amazing stuff
Excellent review, Pranay. When I popped the cork to pour your sample and got wind (ha, pun) again of the peat smoke I immediately realized I needed to revisit this again and re-evaluate it. When I tried it the first time I was having some sinus issues and I struggled to take in the full effect of this wonderful libation. I will remedy that sometime over this holiday break. Also, when I first learned of this whisky's existence I immediately repurposed my budget to try to accommodate a purchase. Needless to say, my family's holiday presents ended up being $10 McDonalds gift cards, but I think that in the end they would all be okay with that. I know I sure am, lol. (j/k) I'm glad you enjoyed the sample and have a safe and happy holiday season. Cheers.
Excellent review, Pranay. And pity I am not in the US to share samples with you guys!
Thanks Matt. Unfortunately this is one of those that i'll never get to buy b/c of the high price, but will just cherish in the memories. Sort of like that one date you'd have with a beauty queen that just happens to have a PhD...relish the evening, but she's way above my social and economic standing
Amazing review, thanks for sharing!
This is definitely on my to-buy list. I never had a peated whiskey this old before, so I always just assumed the peat aroma and taste fades off after so many years. Not so...instead it becomes really well integrated into the other flavors. Brings out the subtle flavors to the forefront. Really a must buy. Now...the question of price...
Totally jealous. Sounds amazing. Nice details. Almost like I had a glass...almost.