PBMichiganWolverine
Ardbeg Blaaack
Single Malt — Islay, Scotland
Reviewed
July 11, 2020 (edited October 29, 2020)
The last few years, I don’t really think there’s been an Ardbeg Day release that’s impressed me. The only reason I’ve ever bought those, and generally the Committee Releases only , is more so just because it’s Ardbeg. I’ve always thought Ardbeg had a very enviable problem that it’s regular releases are so good ( 10, Uigi, Corey, and even now the 5), that it’s special ones always had a hard time matching up. Unless you spend high dollars and get the 17 and 19, the core range are always the best.
Until this year. This one was probably the best Ardbeg Day release I’ve had. Far beating the last few: Perpetuum, Drum, Kelpie, etc. I wouldn’t say it’s better than the core...it’s just different. It has the sooty Ardbeg peat, but this time mixed with a fruity backbone. Think raspberry and sooty smoke.
If you can find it reasonably priced, it’s a must try, especially if you’re an Islay fan. Thanks to @LeeEvolved for the pour!
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Loved the CR, and finally got a bottle of the LR I can't wait to sink my teeth into. :)
@ContemplativeFox if you get this, wait a bit till prices stabilize. I don’t think I’d pay over $110-120, considering the Committee release was $150-200.
@LeeEvolved Thanks for the comparison with Traigh Bhan. That's probably been my favorite Ardbeg so far, so I'm even more interested in this release after reading your comparison! Would love to see a full review.
Appreciate the comparison with other Ardbeg Day releases. Completely agree that the core Ardbeg line is really strong, so the Ardbeg Day releases have had trouble living up. I'll have to be on the lookout for an opportunity to try this one!
Tried the committee release of this and it is full of red and tropical fruit. Also have a sample of this version.
Actually, I thought this one had more character than the 19yo Traigh Bhan. I still think Dark Cove takes the cake as the best Feis Ile release from Ardbeg (although I haven’t had the Day or the 2011 untitled one, which I hear is phenomenal) Great review, glad you enjoyed it. Cheers.