Richard-ModernDrinking
Ardbeg An Oa
Single Malt — Islay, Scotland
Reviewed
September 9, 2017 (edited November 28, 2017)
This is a well executed blend that should be more approachable for casual drinkers than a typical Ardbeg, yet is still true enough to its distillery’s character to make an appealing alternative for the fan base. The dominant flavors throughout are lemon and dark chocolate, a combination that’s hard to fault. There’s also a whiff of wet wood on the nose, which is less overpoweringly peaty than many an Ardbeg. You’ll find a sweet crescendo mid-palette as the sherry influence rises, followed by the peppery peat reasserting itself on the finish. A dash of water surprisingly extends the aftertaste. It’s not as complex or as pleasantly challenging as Uigeadail, but it’s enjoyable enough to keep in the home bar rotation. A welcome addition to the family.
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So it turns out that this is at least 60% Ardbeg 10 plus 15-20% PX cask and 15-20% new char American oak. Fascinating breakdown of the recipe here: https://www.masterofmalt.com/blog/post/cask-by-cask-ardbeg-an-oa-deconstructed.aspx
Looks like I was correct that this was intended to bring in new drinkers: http://robbreport.com/food-drink/spirits/ardbeg-an-oa-new-whisky-release-lighter-peat-2743352/
Honestly as a hobbyist it's a delicate balance. I don't want distilleries to close for lack of demand, particularly as great a distillery as Ardbeg (which almost died 25-30 years ago). But I also don't want the explosion that's happening with limited edition bourbons now, where you need to sell your firstborn to get some Buffalo Trace Antique Collection.
dropping prices might be tough too. It'll attract a few buyers choosing between two Islay scotches, but it won't help the masses choosing whiskey in general.
Lee, the 3 star rating is more a reflection of the high standards we’re blessed with in this golden age of whisky. It’s still a good whisky I would happily drink, just lacks the wow factor of the very best.
Great review, Richard. Seeing a three star rating for an Ardbeg is somewhat disheartening, though. It makes me wonder what they really are trying to accomplish here. Heck, if Uggy and Corry are suffering poor sales then just drop the price point to $60-65 and I'll buy them all....hahaha.
With the cask combination, I was thinking more of a go against the Triple Wood, but could be wrong.
Yes, it’s a permanent addition but much cheaper than Lore — around $60. I’m guessing they need another cheaper bottle in their range as I heard that Uggi and Corry aren’t selling very well, at least in the US. Sample coming your way ASAP.
This is now a standard offering like Corry? Probably to compete against Lore?