Whisky Review: Ardbeg 22 Year Old

that is a list of contradictions so diverse it’s hard to believe. For those able to track down a bottle of this dram, I encourage you to do so – but as it was sold exclusively to Ardbeg Committee fan club members you may need to join their ranks first to see what’s left. Ardbeg 22 Year Old (image via Ardbeg) Tasting Notes: Ardbeg 22 Year Old Vital Stats: 46.4% or 92.8 proof, 22 years aged in ex bourbon barrels, originally sold for $575 USD – some bottles are going for as much as $800 today on the secondary market. Appearance: Delicate light gold, this is surprisingly light and clear for a 22 year old non chill-filtered scotch. Nose: Gentle peat takes you at first, but is quickly followed by a soft floral bouquet with honeysuckle and alfalfa. There is a brightness that is hard to describe, but in the aroma of this scotch you can practically picture an Irish landscape on a sunny day with green rolling hills and a gentle creek. Palate: The initial flavor is surprisingly absent, almost a fake out where you expect a big peat presence but instead you only get a hint of honeyed ham. The mid palate is where the smoke comes in, but it does so gently, so as not to overwhelm you. In the finish the alcohol makes itself known, lighting up your tongue and lingering for such a length as the flavors continue to develop you almost don’t want to take another sip, almost.