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Whisky Review: Ardbeg Spectacular

Ardbeg Spectacular was matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and port wine casks.

OVERALL RATING

8
$119.95
  • Mark Bostock, a whisky enthusiast specializing in independent bottlings.
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Tasting Notes

About:

Released in celebration of Ardbeg Day 2024 (June 1st), the Ardbeg Spectacular is the annual special release from the Islay distillery. Ardbeg Spectacular was matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and port wine casks. In recent years, Ardbeg’s special releases divided the distillery’s enthusiasts and fan base.
Appearance:
Golden Sunset
Nose:
On the pour, the nose is a mix of coastal salt, peat, and industrial smoke. After letting the dram breathe for a few minutes, some more notes develop, aromatic menthol (eucalyptus), lavender, and some peaty moss alongside a hint of leather – which conceal a slight sweetness, caramel or toffee.
Palate:
A mix of sweet and savory. Initially a sugary sweet note, with orchard fruits plum, strawberry, and pear. This sweetness suddenly gives way to savoury notes, sea salt, leather, roasted nuts, tar, and woodsmoke, although there’s still a eucalyptus note – some characteristic Ardbeg flavors.
Finish:
A long finish, that’s slightly drying. Hints of bonfire smoke, leather, and salted caramel before a final cooling hit of eucalyptus.
Comments:
Personally, after a few tastings, this whisky fluctuates between a 7 and an 8, and I suspect this is another annual release that will divide Ardbeg fans. Not as sweet as expected with the port cask influence – any sweetness is quickly overtaken by salty savory notes. There are classic Ardbeg notes and flavors including smoke, leather, peat, and tar, but these seem restrained and muted compared to some of the distillery’s other bottlings. An unusual combination of peculiar aromas and flavors, I particularly like the cooling eucalyptus – this is definitely a dram to try, but it’s one I think will divide individual perspectives amongst tasting groups.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Mark Bostock

Mark Bostock, an integral part of the Mark Littler LTD UK content writing team since 2019, brings a genuine passion for whisky, especially independent bottlings, to his work. His commitment to expanding his knowledge through attending tasting events and building his own collection enriches his contributions, blending expertise with enthusiasm.

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