Taster

Nose: A gentle, seductive sweet peat leads the way to a complex arrival of malt and vanilla.

Palate: Soft and languid at first, brilliant chewy malt and cocoa adds the depth and balance.

Finish: There is a delightful level of residual peat which ensures a long finish.

Comment: I admit to being a little biased here as I did have a hand in putting this whisky together. But I must say I adore it for its wonderful balance.

Score: 9

Taster

Nose: Assertive, briny, seaweedy, tar-like. Hint of sulphur.

Palate: Sweetish. Cereal grains, oil, gorse. Tightly combined flavours.

Finish: Oily. Lemon skins. Freshly-ground white pepper. Very appetising.

Comment: Not the most muscular Ardbeg, but still robust.

Score: 8.5