I like that it surprised me, it’s delicate and intriguing.
Phoebe Calver
Ardbeg
Bottler
Arrrrrrrdbeg
Expression
Single Malt
Type
No age statement
Age (Years)
51.8%
ABV
Islay
Region/Country
Standard (Distillery or blended)
Bottling Type
Taster
Nose: Unexpected. Art room stationery cupboard, pencil eraser, acrylic paints. There’s something a little salty, like salted caramel and sea shells. Vanilla rice pudding and syrupy melon enter, with a little hint of elderflower.
Palate: This is really very delicate, sweet fire pit smoke. More of the light syrupy melon, with a little elderflower cordial and allspice.
Finish: Medium to long with dry and earthy smoke freshness.
Comment: I like that it surprised me, it’s delicate and intriguing.
Score: 7.9
Taster
Nose: Wood smoke, menthol and a touch of liquorice. White grape and pear drop beneath, with lime zest and green olive. A touch of cardamom, clove and a very subtle farmyard note, all balanced by cream soda sweetness.
Palate: Well integrated and gently medicinal. Quite light and fresh, with sweet but ‘green’ notes of sugar snap pea, underripe avocado and honeydew melon. A slice of smoked vanilla sponge in there too.
Finish: Medium, with gentle menthol and subtle smoke.
Comment: A gentle Ileach, despite the ABV.
Score: 7.6
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