Whisky Review: Ardbeg 10-Year-Old

The palate still showcases the collision of lightness and smoke that Ardbeg is striving for. Light mouthfeel. Delicate on the tongue with powerful flavors. Salt takes the lead ahead of the full force of the smoke, which follows in very short order. Salted whipped honey, dried mango and papaya, fresh chopped parsley on buttered pasta, a bit of Thai sweet chili. The finish is ushered in by the smoke, which takes centerstage after the swallow. Lingering notes of salt and vanilla cream with persistent smokiness. Final Thoughts and Score: Ardbeg 10 Years Old is on the short list of whiskies I would personally recommend for stocking a home bar — any home bar. In my opinion, either this or the 10-year-old release from Laphroaig would fit the bill nicely for the bare essentials in representing heavily-peated drams and the Islay region in any modest collection. For the more experienced sipper, Ardbeg 10 remains a solid and enjoyable example of heavily-peated single malt. What is more, the whisky is relatively free from gimmicks which may otherwise interfere with one’s enjoyment, if one is bothered by such things. With regards to 10 Years Old, keep doing what you’re doing, Ardbeg. Editor’s Note: A sample of this whiskey was provided to us by those behind it. The Whiskey Wash, while appreciative of this, keeps full independent editorial control over this article.