Product Description:
Ardbeg BizarreBQ is a limited edition Islay single malt whisky released in 2023, born from a collaboration between Ardbeg's Director of Whisky Creation, Dr. Bill Lumsden, and grilling guru DJ BBQ (Christian Stevenson). This experimental expression aims to capture the smoky, sweet, and savoury essence of barbecue. Its unique character comes from maturation in a specific combination of casks: double charred oak casks, Pedro Ximénez sherry casks known for their sweetness, and Ardbeg's traditional ex-bourbon casks. Bottled non-chill filtered at 50.9% ABV, BizarreBQ is designed to be a complex, flavour-packed dram embodying smoke, meat, and charcoal notes.
Tasting Notes:
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Nose: Pungent and complex aromas of smoldering charcoal, hickory wood smoke, and soot intermingle with savory grilled meat notes (like brisket ends or jerky). Hints of sweet BBQ glaze, black treacle, roasted nuts, cloves, and fennel emerge alongside Ardbeg's signature peatiness.
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Palate: Rich, oily, and intensely flavored. Waves of peat smoke, tar, and bonfire ash crash with sweet and sticky notes of molasses, dark chocolate-covered cherries (from the PX cask), and smoky BBQ sauce. Savory elements of smoked meats, leather, and intense char build alongside warming spices like black pepper and chilli.
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Finish: Very long, smoky, and warming with a distinct meaty and charred character. Lingering flavors of soot, grilled artichoke, black pepper, clove-studded orange, and a deep, resonant smokiness persist.
