Ardbeg Blaaack The Ultimate Limited Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
£250.00
Ardbeg Blaaack is a special, limited edition single malt Scotch whisky released by the Ardbeg distillery on Islay, Scotland. It was the Ardbeg Day release for 2020 and was created to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Ardbeg Committee.
Here’s a breakdown of what makes it unique:
The Concept and Name
The name “Blaaack” is a playful nod to several things:
The Ardbeg Committee: The Ardbeg Committee, with its members often referred to as a “close-knit tribe” or “flock,” is seen as the “black sheep” of the whisky world due to its unique and often unorthodox style. The name “Blaaack” and the sheep on the packaging reference this.
New Zealand: The use of New Zealand Pinot Noir wine casks for maturation is a key feature of this release, and New Zealand is famously home to a large number of sheep.
Release Details
Release Year: 2020
Whisky Type: Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Cask Maturation: This is the first time Ardbeg has used Pinot Noir wine casks for a main release. The whisky was matured in Pinot Noir wine casks from New Zealand. This is a very different cask type from their more traditional ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks.
Bottled at a standard strength of 46% ABV
1 in stock
Description
Ardbeg Blaaack is widely regarded as a successful experiment and a fan-favorite, showcasing how a wine cask can add a unique layer of complexity without overpowering Ardbeg’s core character.
Tasting Notes
The combination of Ardbeg’s signature heavily-peated spirit with the rich, fruity influence of the Pinot Noir casks creates a complex and contrasting flavour profile.
Nose: Expect classic Ardbeg peat smoke, but it’s often described as being softer and more integrated than usual. The nose is full of sweet and zesty fruit notes, particularly red berries like strawberries, raspberries, and dark cherries, along with a hint of citrus and a savoury, smoky quality.
Palate: The palate is a delightful interplay of opposites. The initial sip is a burst of earthy, sooty peat smoke, which is then followed by a wave of jammy fruit sweetness. Notes of dark chocolate, brown sugar, and coffee can also be found. The mouthfeel is often described as velvety and smooth.
Finish: The finish is long and smoky, with the red fruit and sweetness from the wine casks lingering alongside the classic Ardbeg peat and a touch of peppery spice.
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