Ardbeg Whisky Sample Scorch Committee Release Feis ile 2021 (30ml, 51.7%)

Ardbeg Whisky Sample Scorch Committee Release Feis ile 2021 (30ml, 51.7%)

Released for Ardbeg Day 2021 (Feis Ile 2021), this Committee Release is one of the distillery's most intensely smoky expressions. It was matured in "dragon-charred" casks—ex-bourbon American oak barrels that were subjected to a fierce, heavy charring process—designed to amplify the rugged, industrial, and campfire-like character of the Islay spirit.

Tasting Notes

Nose: The aroma is frighteningly intense, dominated by thick soot and bonfire smoke. Beneath the initial peat "scorch," there are sophisticated layers of aniseed, fragrant patchouli, and a metallic note of quenched steel. A touch of saddle soap and toasted hazelnuts rounds out the nose, becoming increasingly herbal—with hints of sage and pine—if a drop of water is added.

Palate: The texture is remarkably oily and mouth-coating. It delivers "lair upon lair" of flavor, starting with sweet, billowy clouds of smoke and the woody spice of heavily charred oak. This transitions into a savory medley of grilled meats and black liquorice, which weave between bold, medicinal notes of antiseptic lozenges and clove.

Finish: The finish is long, heroic, and incredibly persistent. It leaves a lingering aftertaste of soot and tar, with a subtle sweetness of vanilla fudge and a final, cooling hint of menthol ash that stays with the palate for several minutes.