Ardbeg are honouring the precious peat bogs of Islay Isle with the launch of an extremely limited edition bottling. The first of June 2013 is hereby declared to be Ardbog Day around a theme of archaeology, it indeed represents an opportunity for Ardbeggians around the world to get together and raise a dram in honour of all things Ardbeg. Matured ten years in prior use Bourbon barrels and rare Manzanilla sherry butts, non chill filtered and bottled at 52.1%.
Burnished amber hue. Deep, enticing waves of pecan nuts, salty toffee and caramels combine with fudge, leather and with a distinct whiff of herbs, lavender and violets. The smoke is soft and aromatic, and is interwoven with salty, savoury notes, such as Iberico ham and olives. A full, oily/tingly mouth feel leads into a powerful, salty, savoury burst of flavours including salted cashews and peanuts, clove, aniseed flavoured toffee, green olives and a curious hint of anchovy. A long, lingering aftertaste, in which the classic Ardbeg sweetness, like a hint of maple syrup, is kept in check by oak tannins, clove and coffee grounds.
