islay_emissary
Ardbeg Twenty Something 23 Year
Single Malt — Islay, Scotland
Reviewed
November 9, 2017 (edited July 15, 2020)
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.
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@PBMichiganWolverine - thank you also for some great samples I can’t wait to get to!
@Rick_M really a heart felt thank you for the kind words! Personally, I actually like sharing these...something to be said about enjoying a fine dram or wine with folks you know will enjoy and appreciate it. @LeeEvolved dude, I’m still envious of you guys going to that DC tasting. You’re right—if I hadn’t booked a family vacation in Costa Rica, I’d been there in a heartbeat.
@LeeEvolved - Perfectly said! Amen.
Wow, thanks for the kind words @Rick_M. I would not have opened this bottle if it weren’t for some of my friends joining me at Whiskyfest in DC back in April. @Generously_Paul travelled all the way from Detroit to hang out with me and @Telex, and I truly believe @PBMichiganWolverine would’ve flown in as well had he not been on a family vacation in Central America. When you get friends together for what is likely a once in a lifetime experience you have to break out some big guns, so the Ardbeg 23 and Macallan Fine Oak 21 were chosen. The simple fact that you blindly mailed me several samples from $300+ bottles made it an easy decision to return in kind. Plus, I love knowing that you’ll give an honest assessment of the whisky and people who may be considering a purchase need some honest reviews before plopping down cash like that. And don’t be surprised if you come home one day and another random box of samples is sitting on your porch- that’s how I roll, lol. Also, a heartfelt thank you to your uncle and all other service men and women that gave the ultimate sacrifice to make sure that we have the ability and freedom to enjoy the finer things in life in this country. That’s what Memorial Day is about- take a moment in between the burgers and beers you’re eating this weekend and reflect on that- those soldiers did the hard part, we all owe them more than a minute to do the easy part. Cheers.
@Slainte-Mhath, Yes, I’m a big fan of Compass Box. The Flaming Heart 5th has eluded me so far. I know there’s one hiding somewhere. :)
@Rick_M: New Compass Box release? For me, that's a hundred times more interesting than Ardbeg bottlings. Managed to get a Flaming Heart 5th Ed today :)
I️ still have an unopened bottle of the 21 and I️ pretty much agree with Richard- it wasn’t what I’d hoped it would be. Thankfully, I️ beat the VA online purchase program at its own game and saved $100 on the retail price (that’s why I went ahead and bought 2 at the time). I️ think I️ would buy the 23 if I came across one at or below retail, just so I could complete any future “sets” this one could lead to, lol. I️ highly doubt I’d open this one, though, based on my opinion of the 21. If you do open this one, Rick I️ hope it’s a beauty.
It's just sign of the times, for now. Some labels are commanding silly secondary market prices right now. Time will tell if it's sustained, or fizzles out. I remember back in the 80s as a kid, I remember my dad holding Johnnie Walker as the epitome of a great whisky, not single malts. Our generation, it seems to be certain single malts. Who knows with the next. ( so...Rick, turn it around for profit while you still can...before the flavor profile of the masses changes from single malts to something like gin or sochu... ;-)
Richard, ironically, an Ardbeg 21 Committee release sold last Friday at a Skinner auction in Boston for $750 plus $173 buyer’s premium ($923). It was this result that convinced me to buy the 23yo. I bid online on several whiskies unsuccessfully. Prices were crazy.
I bought and opened the 21. It wasn't worth the price and I don't envisage it appreciating, given how expensive it is. So I will be passing on the 23.
Rick---either way you slice it, it's a great buy. Whether you decide to drink it, or hold on. 23 yr old Ardbegs are a rarity
Pranay, I had an Uigi 2 nights ago that was incredible. Had me rethinking whether Ardbeg10 was still my favorite. The nose was so elegant that I didn't miss the peat. :)
Rick--so, is that like a 23 yr old Uigi, almost?
Lee, my understanding is the whisky is a vatting of ex-bourbon and ex-oloroso stock that spent at least 23 years in same. I like this better than just a 2-year sherry finish.
I paid $529 for the Ardbeg and $169 for the new Compass Box Phenomonology. After doing the math I jumped on both since were under suggested retail.
Hmm I might have to take a stab at an embassy I know of, but what was the price? (cringe)
So, how much above the $570 suggested retail did you have to pay? 😆 Is it true this was the same 21 year old stock that was finished for 2 years in Oloroso barrels?