Ardbeg Arrrrrrrdbeg Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Product Description:

Ardbeg Arrrrrrrdbeg! was a special limited edition bottling released in early 2021 exclusively for Ardbeg Committee members. This unique Islay single malt was created to celebrate the retirement of beloved Distillery Manager Mickey Heads after 13 years at the helm. Distinctively, Arrrrrrrdbeg! is the first Ardbeg expression to be matured entirely in ex-rye whiskey casks. Bottled non-chill filtered at 51.8% ABV, it aimed to combine Ardbeg's signature peat smoke with the spicy complexity derived from the rye cask maturation, creating a fittingly bold and characterful farewell dram.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A fascinating mix of smoky and spicy aromas. Notes of smoked banana and pear mingle with rye bread, toasted almonds, vanilla toffee, aniseed, and Ardbeg's characteristic bonfire smoke and hint of brine.
• Palate: Full-bodied and vibrant. A surge of fruity sweetness (melon, kiwi, baked apple) gives way to powerful rye spice notes – black pepper, clove, ginger, and a touch of menthol or eucalyptus. This is interwoven with classic Ardbeg peat smoke, tar, soot, and a growing savoury, almost meaty character.
• Finish: Long, lingering, and complex. The finish showcases a satisfying interplay of peat smoke, spicy rye notes (pepperiness), smoked paprika, oak tannins, and a final briny, medicinal tang.