Ardbeg, nestled along the rugged shores of Islay, is a distillery that commands reverence among whisky enthusiasts for its bold and peaty expressions. The Ardbeg 10 Years Old Adelphi Selection Cask 1979, distilled in 1998 and bottled in 2009 by the revered independent bottler Adelphi for their Selection series, is a testament to the distillery's iconic style and the artistry of cask selection. With an assertive ABV of 58.8%, this expression, matured in a First Fill Bourbon Barrel, offers a rewarding journey into the maritime depths and sweet smokiness of Islay.
The Maturation Odyssey:
The Ardbeg 10 Years Old Adelphi Selection Cask 1979 embarked on a maturation odyssey within the confines of a First Fill Bourbon Barrel. Distilled in 1998, this expression spent a decade absorbing the influences of the barrel, patiently evolving into a masterpiece that reflects the spirit of Ardbeg. Bottled in 2009, the result is a deep gold elixir that captures the essence of Islay's maritime allure and the distillery's commitment to peaty perfection.
Tasting Notes:
As the golden elixir graces the glass, it invites enthusiasts to partake in a sensory symphony that unfolds with each nuanced note.
Nose:
The initial encounter is a captivating dance of aromas that paints a vivid picture of Islay's coastal beauty. Fruits take the lead, with apricots, soft fruits, and stewed gooseberries creating a luscious bouquet. Behind this fruity front, Savlon antiseptic cream and dentists' mouthwash add a touch of medicinal intrigue. A trace of sweet pastry weaves through the ensemble, enhancing the olfactory experience. Once water is introduced, the aromas evolve into fresh and mineral-like notes reminiscent of bath salts, spa scents, and swimming pools. Maritime influences emerge, accompanied by hints of linseed oil and honey-roast smoked ham—a complex and enticing nose.
Taste:
On the palate, the Ardbeg 10 Years Old delivers a surprising sweetness that harmonizes with the expected peaty punch. Traces of eucalyptus make a brief appearance before giving way to the main act—plenty of smoke that envelops the taste buds. The medium to long finish is a testament to the interplay between sweetness and smoke, leaving a lasting impression of Islay's elemental forces.
Conclusion:
The Ardbeg 10 Years Old Adelphi Selection Cask 1979 is a whisky that beckons enthusiasts to embark on a journey through Islay's maritime landscapes and peaty traditions. Crafted by the esteemed independent bottler Adelphi, this expression stands as a rewarding companion to the Breath of Islay 1992, showcasing a different facet of Ardbeg's character. From the fruity nose to the sweet and smoky palate, each sip is an exploration of complexity and balance. With only 193 bottles in existence, this limited edition release is a coveted gem that captures the spirit of Ardbeg in all its maritime majesty and sweet smoke—a fitting tribute to Islay's peaty prowess.
Official tasting note ()
Makes a rewarding comparison with the Breath of Islay 1992 cask no. 5351. Although Ardbeg specifies a higher level of peating than the other, this does not come through so dramtically in the spirit. This bottling is from a first fill Bourbon barrel, and is deep gold in colour. The nose has fruits in front (apricots, soft fruits, stewed gooseberries), with Savlon antiseptic cream and dentists’ mouthwash behind, and a trace of sweet pastry. The first clutch of aromas once water is added are fresh and mineral-like – bath salts, spa scents, swimming pools – but these fill out with maritime scents, linseed oil and honey-roast smoked ham. The ‘honey-roast’ doesn’t prepare you for the sweetness in the mouth, with traces of eucalyptus then plenty of smoke in the medium to long finish.
