Ardbeg Whisky Sample Grooves Committee Release Feis ile 2018 (30ml, 51.6%)

Ardbeg Whisky Sample Grooves Committee Release Feis ile 2018 (30ml, 51.6%)

The Ardbeg Grooves Committee Release was the limited-edition centerpiece for Ardbeg Day 2018 (Fèis Ìle 2018). This release embraced a psychedelic 1960s "Summer of Love" theme—complete with "Peat & Love" branding—but the liquid itself was far more rugged than the flower-power marketing suggested.

Tasting Notes

Nose: The "Committee" proof (51.6%) provides a punchier aromatic profile than the standard 46% release. It opens with an unusual mix of smoked cinnamon, paprika, and savory honey-glazed ham. Classic Ardbeg notes of pine resin and salty sea spray are present, but they are wrapped in a layer of antique leather and a curious hint of floral matcha tea.

Palate: The mouthfeel is exceptionally oily and "bombastic." It starts with a heavy hit of treacle toffee and vanilla popcorn, which quickly gives way to the influence of the wine casks: salted peaches, black grapes, and a drying, earthy soot. The smoke here is "dirty" and industrial, reminiscent of smoldering driftwood and charred BBQ meats.

Finish: The finish is long, dry, and distinctly peppery. It leaves a lingering taste of aniseed, chili-seasoned meats, and sweet plum, with a final, cooling wisp of campfire ash and salty liquorice.