Ardbeg Dark Cove Committee Release

55°

Distillery : Ardbeg - Islay

Bourbon and Sherry Casks

Original Bottling

Limited Edition

Single Malt

Bottled in 2015

Unchillfiltered, Uncoloured

Peated around 54 ppm

Bottled in 2015, this expression went on sale in early 2016. The Committee Release is a series of limited bottlings released by Ardbeg every year since 2008.

Let's Taste It : 

On the nose, deep smoke, not too overwhelming. Then, a sherry softened by the influence of bourbon. Sugar candy, doughnuts. Dried fruits, caramel, leather. A hint of vanilla, lemon. Behind, charcoal and ash. A medicinal touch. Good balance, which is surprising given the variety of aromas. On the palate, it's once again very smooth. Aniseed, caramel, candied fruits, a ounce of citrus. The peat finally appears. It takes hold, invades the palate and gains momentum. Pepper and spices push and shove. There's cola and liquorice on the finish, which is long enough, not too violent and slightly sparkling. A fine summary of everything Ardbeg can do.

 

In Short, 

This whisky has everything: peat, bourbon, sherry, complexity, power and intensity. It's the best I've tasted from Ardbeg so far. A must-have if you can find it at an affordable price, which is science-fiction given the current market.  

Score : 91

                                          To Be Listened While Sipping :

   

                                          Pink Floyd - Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Part I)