Powerful, muscular, well-textured, and invigorating. Even within the realm of Ardbeg, this one stands out. The more aggressive notes of coal tar, damp kiln, anise, and smoked seaweed are supported by an array of fruit (black raspberry, black cherry, plum), dark chocolate, espresso, molasses, bacon fat, kalamata olive, and warming cinnamon on the finish. Quite stunning! (Fall 2009) Reviewed by: John Hansell(Tried & True Award)- Honey color. The aromatic emphasis is not - surprisingly - on the peat but rather on the soft malt/cereal grain fragrance. Flavor profile is toasty, roasted, intensely grainy, lean, austere, incredibly complex but straightforward. Finishes dry, beany/kernel-like, zesty.
Whisky Advocate - 96 08/19/2009
Ultimate Beverage Challenge - 95 03/22/2015